I’m not saying anything new when saying how 2020 was a difficult year for many; a strange year to say the least. We were faced with restrictions that many never thought we would need to face, missing things that we may have assumed would always be there, needing to focus on things such as social distance, mask wearing, hand washing, in ways we may have never imagined we would need to. But yet here we are. While saying this, I am thinking of so many people that I have met who thought of reflecting on what they have learnt through this experience, those who shared posts on the internet asking people to write one memory that they will cherish from this year, those who pushed themselves to be creative. So with these people in mind, I wish to share an activity for families to do together now that we have said bye to 2020, and moved into 2021.
The Activity:
This activity involves 3 simple steps, and around an hour of family time.
Step 1: The things we needed to let go of
Each person can take some time to think of one thing that they had to let go of in 2020. Was there something that you were excited about but you needed to cancel or postpone during the year? Was there something that you particularly missed? Take turns to share with your family.
Step 2: My favorite moment with you
Each person can take note of their favorite moment from 2020 spent with the different family members. What memory will you carry with you from your time with each family member? Take turns to say what was special about these moments.
Step 3: Let’s make plans
The last step involves making one plan with each family member. Think of something that you would really like to share with your relative this year. Perhaps somewhere you would like to visit for a walk with your sibling. Or a new recipe you would like to try to learn from your mum. Or a movie you would like to re-watch with your partner. Start with one plan with each family member for the year, but once you complete your plans, you could always make some new ones!
Rebecca Cassar is a Family Therapist practicing the Systemic Approach. She specializes in offering therapy to families, couples and individuals who are experiencing distress in their relationships. She can be contacted on rebecca@willingness.com.mt or call us on 79291817.