What a time to be alive! We’ve come a long way since the pandemic began in early 2020, and there have been several unforeseen changes in recent times – both personally and professionally. While these (almost) two years have undoubtedly been difficult, we’ve done our best to persevere as we continue to overcome this period in our lives. Amidst all the uncertainty, however, I’ve found comfort in remembering to appreciate the little things that life has to offer – many of which may have previously been taken for granted.
With the holidays now upon us, I wanted to spend a few moments reflecting on those takeaways, so we can begin the new year filled with gratitude and positivity.
1. Prioritize Your Health
Heading into 2022, I know that nothing is more important than my health. The pandemic brought to light the importance of good health, and during the hustle and bustle of life, we can often overlook it. Now, with this topic in the spotlight, a true focus has been put on a person’s overall well-being.
Cisco has always been a company that encourages its employees to take care of their health, and they’ve shown this in multiple ways – sometimes by providing us with mental health days (also known as a “Day for Me”) to help prevent burnout as much as possible, or even through some of our other benefits such as the Employee Assistance Program (EAP) which enables us to seek additional assistance from professionals.
2. Spread More Love
Compassion and empathy are rooted in the culture across Cisco, and I’ve personally witnessed it many times, most recently as part of the AppDynamics team. As an employee, being part of a team where each member genuinely looks out for you and cares about you is an underrated blessing which can be found amongst the people at this company.
During these times, I’ve also found a new appreciation for being able to spend more time with my family. The level of quality time we’ve had in recent years is truly a gift and being able to lean on loved ones during tough times has been a silver lining to what we are enduring. From cooking meals together to bonding over family game nights, I truly appreciate the moments we get to spend together.
3. Never Stop Growing
Nature has also been a healing force during this phase, old hobbies have been revived, and new hobbies have been discovered. Technology helped us stay connected, and we found that simple things such as laughter, kindness, and time with loved ones are what bring us the most happiness. Like Cisco, I love these moments of connecting and re-connecting with friends, family, hobbies, and passions.
Still, it is okay to feel overwhelmed and uncertain at times. The important thing is that we are working through these challenging times together. It is encouraging to know that we are not alone, and I’m thankful to work at a company with individuals who care more about each other than simply the work at hand. We are stronger together, and that has become even more apparent over the last two years.
One thing I’ve learned through all of this is that sometimes you just need to accept things for what they are and move on. Certain things are out of our control, and letting go is really the key to being happy. Change can be immensely difficult, but with time, it often turns into something unexpectedly amazing. That’s the beauty of life – tough times don’t last forever, and the darkest storms are what bring us the brightest rainbows. We will soon be ringing in a new year, and together we will step forward with new perspectives from all the growth we’ve had recently. 2022 will certainly present us with some extra love and warmth.
The best is yet to come, and I wish you all a happy, safe, and healthy new year!
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THIS! Health, Love, and Growth… so important! This article is an inspiring reminder of what really matters, and it couldn’t have come at a better time. Especially loving this quote: “tough times don’t last forever, and the darkest storms are what bring us the brightest rainbows”
Aishwarya, Thank you for this positive and heartfelt message! And Happy New Year!
Stephen, you are SO kind! Thank you so much for your support and it’s definitely comforting to know people everywhere are able to resonate. We are not alone at all in our thoughts, and this new year is all about moving forward and making the most out of each day!
Hi there,
Beautiful story, well redacted and interesting in the same time.
Well done to you and hopefully more people will read and being inspired by this real story.
Thank you for sharing.
Kind regards,
Eduard
Thank you for you kind words, Eduard! Glad you enjoyed the blog! 🙂
This article was something i wanted to read before i start my work on Monday of 2022. Thank you.
Thank you so much Vivek, I’m glad it gave people a boost to start off the new year with a positive mindset!
Aish! I absolutely love this! I miss seeing your face in the office. Thanks for the beautiful write up and positive outlook as we start a new year amidst more uncertainty.
Aw Marianne, thank you so much! Miss seeing you as well, glad you liked reading this piece! 🙂
Aish, Happy New Year! I saw your face and It made me smile! Your article gave me GOOD VIBES! love it! 🙂
Happy New Year, Adrienne! So good to hear from you and I miss seeing you every morning in the office! Your comment brought a smile to my face so thank you!! 🙂
The end of 2021 and the start of 2022 hasn’t been easy for my family. Personally, your message comes at the right moment and a perfect reminder…”the beauty of life – tough times don’t last forever, and the darkest storms are what bring us the brightest rainbows.”
Hi Berta, I’m sorry it’s been a difficult time for you and your family. Just know you are not alone, and things will absolutely get better soon. Sending lots of love and positive thoughts your way! 🙂
Hi Berta, I really really hope things get better for you and your family! Times are most definitely tough right now and I’m sure you will come out of this phase stronger. Sending lots of love to you and your family!
Such a positive article! A great way to start the new year for Ciscoians worldwide! Thank you and happy new year!
Awesome Aishwarya, loved the way you have highlighted and appreciated how mother Nature has been our healing force.
Thanks, Anay! Happy to hear that the blog was able to add some positivity to your day! Happy New Year!
Sometimes it is the information that we know written in a simple way serves as good reminder. Thank you Aishwarya!
Aw thank you! Yes, life hasn’t been easy lately and we could all use some extra love and positivity. Brighter days are ahead!
Wonderfully put … Happy New Year!
Thank you Renee, Happy New Year!
Aishwarya, what a beautiful and inspiring story.
I saw your beautiful smile and immediately felt like a connection to read your article. I was feeling low today but your article has lifted my spirits.
Thank you and keep shining.
Jeevan, thank you so much for your kind words! So happy to hear that the article was able to help lift someone’s spirits, appreciate the support! 🙂
Tremendous perspective and very inspiring, i echo your sentiments and outlook!
Thank you so much!!