There is no denying it.  2020 has been a long, strange road.  And during these strange times, people have had a hard time deciding what to do.  Do we just wait it out?  If we hunker down, will this just blow over?  Will everything change when we turn the calendar over to 2021?

These are all fair questions, but very reactionary.

I find that when I am waiting on someone else to fix my situation, I get very anxious.  It leaves me with nothing to do for myself but worry.  Will it get better?   Will someone help me?  How will this election end up so someone can fix all of this?

So rather than wait for someone else to swoop in and fix 2020 for you (and me), here are some different questions you might consider.  Ask these of yourself, and then decide what you are willing to do to improve things in your circle of influence.

What am I reading?

There are so many amazing books to read (or listen to) that can help to move your brain in a more pro-active direction.  If you are an entrepreneur (or want to be) here is a list of 10 must read books you can start with.  Reading or listening to books (or inspiring podcasts) is an extremely low cost way to get smarter and get inspired.

What training have I done?

While events around the country have been cancelled or postponed, there are some amazing virtual conferences going on.  And although everyone talks about “zoom fatigue,” this is a reality for now…so we need to fight through it.  You can attend these events for much less money because you don’t have to travel.  At Hasseman Marketing, we have our first ever MasterClass coming up very soon and we would love to have you!  There are plenty of ways to level up your skills and take control right now…so get after it!

Am I exercising?

If you want to be happier, better able to deal with stress, and even smarter, exercising is a great place to start.  This doesn’t mean you have to run a marathon every day.  It simply means that if you intentionally spend 20 to 30 minutes increasing your heart rate each day, good things will happen.

What experiences can I take on?

Just because things are different doesn’t mean you can’t do ANYTHING.  There are virtual conferences.  Many beaches are still open.  You can get on the open road and drive.  So what are you going to do?  If you are unintentional with your time, 2020 will eat you alive.  Consider some experiences you are able to do…and go do them!

Who can I help?

The best way to get yourself out of a funk is to look for someone else to help.  It’s a simple mind hack.  It takes you out of the “me mindset” and makes you think of others.  In the process, you often get a boost of dopamine and a healthy spoonful of gratitude.

These are simple questions.  But when you are frustrated with the hand 2020 is dealing you, asking yourself these 5 questions can be powerful.

Kirby Hasseman is the CEO of Hasseman Marketing, a full service marketing agency located in Ohio.  Learn more about Hasseman Marketing here.