Smile more & keep positive for 2021
In a blink of an eye, 2020 is drawing to a close and it was an unarguably stressful year for many ever since the pandemic outbreak. Instead of focusing on the negative, we should remind ourselves that every dark cloud has a silver lining. Our daily schedules came to a halt as we lived the past few months cooped up in lockdowns but despite all that, it has given us the luxury to spend more quality time with our family, purse new hobbies and to appreciate the simpler things in life.
In this article, our CYNTHIA & XIAO community is here to share how the events of the past year have changed their mindsets and tips on how to stay positive during the pandemic.
SHARON
How has the past year been for you?
Having a lot of home time inspired me to move away from the busy part of town and just enjoy a bigger space! I also had the opportunity to reflect and work on things that I have always wanted to do. Taking the first step to try out new experiments has led to some truly fulfilling and meaningful projects.
Name three things that makes you happy during tough times
· My Pilates routine
· A good check-in with friends
· My cat, Poomah
NATHAN
How has the past year been for you?
2020 has been presenting all of the big questions! Am I making the most of my current opportunities? What happens if circumstances change suddenly? Who are the people I want to spend time with? These are challenging questions; however, they also bring a lot of clarity. 2020 has made life more challenging but there is a silver lining in the opportunities it has presented to understand what is important to me.
How did you overcome them?
I’ve tried to recognise and acknowledge the challenges as they have popped up. There’s not always a clear and simple solution but recognising the feelings and what’s causing the uncertainty has helped me understand what I can control and change - and what I need to let ride out.
“I occupy myself with the things I love doing and surround myself with the people I love.”
STEW
Share with us what is your takeaway from the past year
With the Covid-19 situation, we naturally place more emphasis on our health and wellbeing. Not only have I been more conscious with my diet but also my workout routine to build my immune system. I have also learnt not to take things for granted, just as the term Xi-Fu (惜福) reminds us to focus on what you have, treasure them and it will be your source of happiness.
RONDA
How have you been spending your past months since the outbreak?
I have found more activities to do at home – from knitting, reading to active dancing games. I cooked more at home and that’s another fun activity.
Name three things that make you happy during tough times
My dogs, my hobbies and my friends and family helped make my stay at home easier. We FaceTime and chatted more on the phone even though we didn’t get to see each other as much
LEFT TO RIGHT: COEI, LILLIAN, SHARON, CYNTHIA
COEI
Share with us what is your takeaway from the past year
This year, I had spent most of my days at home which allowed me to take advantage on found time to reflect on my actions – the people and things we take granted for. Not knowing when circumstances will change again has driven me to kick start my personal projects. There is no excuse to delay them further with all the extra time on hand. 2020 has also served as a reminder to always be grateful for all the chances to see my family and friends.
Name three things that make you happy during tough times
Cooking
Quality time with family and friends
Netflix
LILLIAN
Share with us what is your takeaway from the past year
Though there were many restrictions (on travelling, social gatherings and my children’s schools), it has given me the opportunity to take a step back and appreciate what we have and to spend quality time with my family. Ironically, I felt closer to some of my friends as we had more time to develop similar interests and I have never been more grateful for their support and kindness. I am generally a positive person so I view the current situation as a way for everyone to sit back and reflect on their decisions and how things can be done better.
How do you overcome such difficult times?
I occupy myself with the things I love doing and surround myself with the people I love. I believe that there is a silver lining in difficult times.
SAM
Share with us what is your takeaway from the past year
2020 has taught me to be more adaptable and be unafraid to face challenges head on
Name three things that make you happy during tough times
· Drawing
· Lighting up scented candles or incenses
· Hiking and running
FELIX
Share with us what is your takeaway from the past year
Though this year has made me feel trapped, it has also given me time and space to think and be creative.
Name three things that make you happy during tough times
· Spending time with my friends and family
· Watching movies accompanied with beer
· Hiking
CYNTHIA
Share with us what is your takeaway from the past year
2020 has been a very interesting year. It’s challenging when routines are broken – the loss of the usual comfort and stableness makes me feel hopeless but at the same time, it forces me to move forward and try new things. For long time, CYNTHIA & XIAO has been running on a relatively traditional fashion model but with the pandemic, it has driven us to look in other directions, study other business methods and to reach out to more creatives to share experiences and ideas. I have always found it important to stay focused on the good and support others.
There is no guarantee when the pandemic will end but we will not be in this forever. Meanwhile, we should all aim to channel positive energy needed to weather this storm. Perhaps try out a new activity that you have always wanted to but never had the time for or find creative and fun ways to build a happy space at home. Take this opportunity to re-evaluate life and show gratitude to the things and people that you may have taken for granted. More importantly, spread happiness and kindness to each other during these tough times. Reconnect with family members and friends or send them a gift to let them know you’re thinking of them! Our bold and whimsical knits and homeware may just be able to add a little colour and warmth to their daily lives.
WISH YOU ALL A HEALTHY & HAPPY 2021