Resolution 2022: Simply be present — it’s free and it’s necessary

Making New Year's resolutions feels a little magical to me because it's as if we, as a society, collectively set goals for ourselves and then practice self-evaluation. The ever-popular "eat better, work out more" resolution tends to make my list nearly every single year.

As someone who works in the nonprofit world and sits on many boards, I am continually focused on the New Year. In my profession, I reflect on the events of the first half of the fiscal year and simultaneously anticipate what the final half of the year will bring. It's a true test of one's agility! Throughout this process, I maintain a list of things I want to accomplish both professionally and personally in the New Year. This year, one item in particular kept floating to the top — to be present.

It seems like such a simple thing. The pandemic has revealed to me how important it is and how painfully clear it is that we need each other. It's cliché, yet it's the truth. We yearn for connection to each other, to our community, to things larger than ourselves. To be truly present with someone — family, friends, co-workers, neighbors — is a gift. Too often, I have to remind myself of that. It is my wish that as you make your New Year's resolutions this year, you will join me in adding “be present“ to your list. Not only is it free, it is necessary. It's a resolution we can tackle together. And cut down on fried foods.

Okpara Rice is CEO of Tanager Place.