The year gone by is unforgettable. We have survived the challenges, thrived and adapted. We learnt how to handle our health better; exercises, meditation and enough sleep. This has helped us to discover our body, mind and emotions. We learnt the limitations of the false ego originating from wealth, position and power. There was enough time to introspect and learn crucial life lessons. How many would have befriended pains and challenges voluntarily? It was a big opportunity in disguise. It taught us big lessons on patience and empathy. We learnt to respect and gratitude. We have emerged more mature and evolved. A mindset change brings life change.

The medical profession, livelihood and business activities were challenged. There was no escape. Everybody fought back. WFH (Work from home) became new normal. No household maids but all family members shared responsibilities. We discovered our evolutionary push to survive. We have the ability to bounce back from very adverse circumstances.

We adapted to lower-income and job uncertainty. It made us work harder and smarter. Many emerged with new skills and new opportunities to generate income.

We accepted minimalism. We have realized we can survive with less than what we aspired all these days. Expenses got reduced on the discretionary side i.e., travelling, restaurants, movies etc. Family budget got better and savings increased.  

Optimism in stock market manifested upon the realization that consumption cannot be wished away. Easy monetary policy by the central banks added to the liquidity in the market place and took the market to new highs after the March 2020 crash. Those who stayed invested and continued their SIPs and STPs have been rewarded.

Money management awareness has been re-enforced. Reworking our relationship with money is a key discovery in addition to discovering our relationship with a healthy body.

“Hope is a good thing, maybe the best of things and no good things ever dies”.2021 brings us hope; Vaccination, Revival of economic activities, GDP growth in positive territory, Healthy lifestyle, Compassion and peace and happiness. 

Keep the spirit of investing alive and aim to achieve your financial goals of the family.