Reflecting on 2020

Reflecting on 2020

It's no secret that 2020 was a doozy. We were all confronted with a global pandemic that flipped our world completely upside down. Many of us lost loved ones, and at times, we (probably all) felt scared, lonely, and angry. I am grateful that I didn't lose any loved ones to COVID, but my heart goes out to those who did. As I do my yearly reflection, I am trying to focus on the positives and silver linings, because hey, we've all grown in some form or fashion this year!

Growth in my Art Business:

1. As an artist, I freaked out when this pandemic occurred. Art isn't necessarily the first thing someone wants to purchase when their job or the economy is uncertain. I had BIG plans for 2020. I had a large collaboration with my DREAM company that I was elated about (they, unfortunately, filed for bankruptcy, and we had to cancel the collab). Obviously, this was a big loss financially and professionally. 

   • The lesson I learned: Never count your chickens before they hatch, but look at the bright side. Although it didn’t work out, I’m thrilled that such a renowned company wanted to work with me!

2. I've never been shy around new friends; however, something about social media frightens me when putting myself out there. While they were small baby steps, I made connections with so many amazing creatives, entrepreneurs, and designers this year.

   • The lesson I learned: Put yourself out there (even if it means having a glass of wine before sending that email!). I wouldn't have made new connections had I not pushed myself out of my comfort zone.

3. My husband and I are both fairly frugal people. While my business is still very much in the early stages, I've been hesitant to spend money on my business. However, I have realized that I must invest in my business and myself in order for it to grow and thrive.

   • The lesson I learned: Paying to outsource has been the best ROI for my business. I can't believe I'm admitting this, but I started this year hand-writing every address on every shipment, followed by going to USPS & FedEx to wait in line to pay for the postage. It took SO much time and energy. I have invested in ShipStation which has transformed my business, giving me more time to do what I love: paint.

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My Personal Growth:

1. I have always been and always will be a clumsy person. I've come to terms with it. So it came as no surprise to my family & friends that I tore my ACL playing in a competitive round of whiffle ball with my in-laws at the beginning of the quarantine.

   • The lesson I learned: It's okay to rely on your loved ones and to let them help when in need. I've always been someone that has to go, go, go, and I had to surrender a bit of that this year.

2. Not being able to work out after my surgery and being limited to a lot of my normal activity for most of this year was extremely difficult, but I didn't let that hinder me.

   • The lesson I learned: Staying positive is one of the best forms of medicine for healing and recovering. I've really had to push myself to not let my emotions get in my way, and I can say it has made me a much stronger person as I reflect on this year.

3. Family, friends, and community have always been priorities in my life, and this pandemic made me value the importance of all of my loved ones.

   • The lesson I learned: You will never regret making time to be with your family or friends - whether it be to quarantine for two weeks to see someone or to schedule weekly cadences with your friends.

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Although 2020 wasn’t the best year ever, I am grateful to shut the door on this year and walk away with all of these invaluable lessons. What are some of your takeaways from this year? I’d love to hear them in the comment section below and hope I can learn from one of your lessons learned!

My Favorite Business Books:

Want to know what I’m up to on the every day? Follow along on Instagram at @cocozentner_art or on my Pinterest page. I love to post what inspires me, behind the scenes of my painting process, and my pup, Maudie! Have any questions? Simply send me an email, and I’ll do my best to get back to you within 24 hours!

I hope this holiday season brings you and yours so much joy! Sending love and healthy hugs!

Until next time,

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