The coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak has worldwide attention and is growing at an alarming rate. An unprecedented and anxious mix of breaking news, semi-apocalyptic forecasts and toilet paper memes now dominate our lives.
My heart and thoughts go out to the people who have already been affected by this event. I know many of you will be anxious about your elderly relatives, your kids and even your job security. Resilient people are active-copers; they don't wait for the situation to resolve itself. Instead, I encourage you to increase your thinking about what you can do in each of the following areas
Reflection:
Remember you have got through past challenges before and you are probably more resilient than you imagine. Ask yourself:
What has helped me manage previous challenges?
How can I use this knowledge and experience to help me cope in my current situation?
Perspective:
Be aware of any unhelpful thinking, especially those ANTs (Automatic Negative Thoughts) that want to take over. Give yourself options, reframe or zoom out. Accept what you cannot change and work on what you can. You are creative, so use that to your full capability by thinking out of the box for solutions.
How can I reframe this challenge in a positive light?
What resources do I have to help me gain another perspective?
What will I do to interrupt negative thinking?
Emotions
It's OK to be worried, anxious or upset. Acknowledge your feelings; name and express them. Be compassionate with yourself. At the same time, providing intentional support to others also has positive effects on your mental health, so go ahead and reach out.
What am I feeling right now?
How best can I express these emotions, so they don't get stuck within me?
Who might need my help at this time?
Values and purpose:
Knowing what means the most to you in your life – your values - will help you make the right decisions going forward. Utilise your strengths and hold on to your sense of purpose.
Am I making decisions that align with my values?
Where can I use my strengths to their best effect?
How can I join others for a greater sense of purpose?
Connections:
Some people like to "push on through" or "get on with it", which is a great mindset. It's also worth remembering that resilient people are those who ask for help. Utilise your network and think about who could give you the right sort of assistance. Now is not the time to socially isolate, it's time to lean-in – albeit online.
Who will listen when times get tough?
Who can give me a different perspective?
Where can I find my 'tribe' who will allow me to be me?
Mental, Physical and Emotional health.
We may not be about to find a cure for coronavirus, but we can help ourselves manage these overwhelming circumstances. Know when it's time to switch off and give yourself a break. Eat and sleep well. Turn off your phone notifications and do something that will calm your mind, calm your heart and feed your soul.
What is my body telling me I need right now?
What one small step can I take to help my body cope?
What can I give up that will, in turn, allow me more energy/time/space in reserve?
In reality, we don't know how we are going to react to challenges until we face them. The coming months will certainly test us. By being an active-coper, you will boost your resilience and will be able to manage your way through this time of uncertainty. We are in this together, and together we can support each other.
If you think a Resilience Workshop would be of use to your company then please get in tough - My Resilience Workshop is now online.
If you would like to talk to me personally about your resilience, my door is open, please get in touch.