Are you making New Year's resolutions? Wellness experts say you should despite challenging, Pandemic year

MILWAUKEE (CBS 58) -- The year 2020 has been unforgiving and unpredictable, especially with the Pandemic.

With the New Year approaching you might not want to set resolutions. But wellness experts say you should look ahead.

They say 2021 should be less about doing things, and more about being present in the moment.

Some people, like resident Mikayla Gilbert, are making resolutions.

“2021 will hopefully bring a smoke-free year for me," she said.

While others are not.

“I think it’s just further made me realize why I shouldn’t make any," said Milwaukee resident Emmanuella Stover.

As the COVID-19 pandemic rages on, experts say it’s okay to create purpose for 2021.

UW Health Psychologist Shilagh Mirgain said goal-setting can give clarity, especially after loss.

“It really highlights and hones in on our core values of what’s most important, of what kind of legacy we want to leave, for how we want to show up for our life, for our family, for our friends," Mirgain explained.

Getting active is something yoga expert Joanna Brooks recommends.

She also advises “gratitude journaling” – writing down at least three things you’re grateful for each day.

“Just that simple activity can greatly shift how you think about and approach daily life," Brooks, owner of Embody Yoga, said.

Father of two Jason Kruchko described 2020 as challenging.

But he said the new year will be about creating safe, new experiences with loved ones.

“I think it’s just, ‘appreciate what we’ve got and live life a little bit better’ is what we’re kind of hoping to do," Kruchko said.

If you are feeling down, the wellness experts say to reach out to people or organizations you trust.

They say you may think you’re alone but you are not, and there is someone who can help.