CEO'S MESSAGE Susan Speirs, CPA
H
ello, 2021!
As we close a year that brought us the first global pandemic in more than a century, we have much to be grateful for. COVID-19 is the first global pandemic in the social media age, the first of the “alternative facts” era, striking at a time when politics and society were in a state of accelerated chaos. In Utah, we were able to overcome earthquakes, floods, fires, being away from family and friends, and the list goes on. We now have vaccines that have been approved and anticipate that case counts will go down. However, even if the physical spread of the disease is halted, we will have to contend with the long-term mental health effects of quarantine and social distancing. My heart has broke as I’ve conversed with many of you virtually or via our Utah Laws and Rules presentations as we’re all mentally spent. Our mental health experts have suggested that the power of positivity will do much to help us move forward and get out of the “funk” many have expressed they’re experiencing. The power of positivity has been defined as the “practice of being or tendency to be positive or optimistic in attitude.” Emerging research suggests people who practice positivity and gratitude together are more energetic and hopeful and experience more frequent positive emotions. A recent Psychology Today article states that, “people who are satisfied with life eventually have even more reason to be satisfied, because happiness leads to desirable outcomes at school and work, to fulfilling social relationships and even to good health and a long life.” Dr. Sonja Lyubomirsky, author of “The How of Happiness,” indicates that how we think about ourselves, our world and
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the journal entry | january 2021
other people is more important to our happiness than the objective circumstances of our life. Research shows that positivity seems to protect against negative health outcomes because it reduces the effects that chronic stress has on our body. Many studies have found evidence of a link between positivity and improved health markers including lower blood pressure, reduced rate for cardiovascular disease, weight control, healthier blood sugar levels, increased lifespan and better coping skills during hardships and times of stress. As we come out of stressful situations, we find that we have a greater meaning for life and our connections become more important. We find ourselves being more grateful for simple things. Perhaps as we heal mentally from COVID-19, taking time to journal things for which we are grateful would be appropriate. 2020 was a year that gave us opportunity to be challenged and appreciate the small things. 2021 will give us the opportunity to expand what we have learned and accelerate to new levels in every facet of our lives. Cheers to a new year and a new beginning! n
