We are in uncertain times. Will I be working at home? Will my kids return to school? How will my business remain successful? Will we survive this Pandemic Pivot? These questions, and many more, are going through my mind, and also the minds of friends, colleagues, and clients.
Uncertain times can be physically and mentally challenging. Hard on you, hard on your partners, your kids, and your coworkers. The bigger future picture is now up to you to create.
As my world was forced to slow down in quarantine, I have been able to reflect on how this is affecting me. What are other challenging events I have dealt with in my life? How did I work through it and how do I view them now?
In February 2013, my father had an accident that resulted in a major stroke. Frankly, we had no idea if he was going to make it and it was a very scary 6 months of unknowns. Luckily, we were blessed, and he did. As we learned our new “normal” of our Dad/Husband, it gave me an appreciation of who my dad was before the accident as well as a feeling of grief /mourning the loss of what was.
The reflection of this particular life event created a new perspective for me not only personally, but professionally. Yes, we are sad for our kids missing out on the rest of the school year and time with friends…sad for our local businesses that may not rebound…scared for what our new “normal” will be. I challenge you to reflect on past events to find a time where there was an event that was not in your control and what was your response? Was the outcome what you expected, and if not, how could you have changed your reaction and how has it changed your path today.
Instead of us being consumed with fear of the unknown, set goals and start with taking that first step forward. The past 7 years have gone by quickly and gotten busier with work and kid activities. My personal take-away is I need to be more intentional in making time to go see my dad. When I think back to February 2013, where we almost lost him, I am so appreciative that he is still with us and get to take his random check-in, no-filter phone calls.
I understand a lot of us fear the lack of certainty and control. How can you take steps forward to better yourself? For me I am looking forward. The outcome will not always be the way we plan. However, this event in time, unplanned has given us time to reflect on how we can respond.
Personally – Reflect on how this has changed your home life to slow things down and find new ways to connect with your family.
Professionally – Reflect on how you are managing your business during the pandemic. These challenges are massive and have never been experienced at this scale before. Self-Isolation does not mean you have to stay stagnate. If you are learning, you’re moving forward.
Take this event and make it your best possible scenario. Reflect, respond, and move forward. You’ve got this.
