Embracing simple truths during a global pandemic

Far from an average induction 

Three weeks ago I started a new job in the midst of a global pandemic. In an industry that is fuelled by an ability to do production shoots, globally. Essentially the bringing together of diverse groups of people to create something more creatively great than the sum of the parts. It’s been far from an average induction to a new company but an exhilarating story to tell. In light of my new challenge, I’ve been overwhelmed recently with supportive messages from old colleagues, friends and family that have left me feeling guilty. Guilty for not being able to fully empathise with the negative emotions they are experiencing on my behalf. Intrigued by this feeling and determined to allay others' fears, I’ve spent time reflecting on some simple truths which all led me back to one essential coping strategy.  

Simple truth #1: Reacting to things outside our control takes practice  

A simple fact of human existence is that we personally nor collectively can control everything that happens to us and the current pandemic is a demonstration of this. Much like the investment it takes to learn a new language, this way of thinking takes practice. Last week we saw Boris Johnson practice it in his public announcement about catching COVID-19 and staff and residents at a care home doing the same as they initiated a life sized game of Hungry Hippo to keep spirits high. Instead of trying to change what I cannot control, I’ve always been an advocate of focusing my time and energy on the parts of my life I can control. How I emotionally react to situations, how I make other people feel or how I can make a meaningful difference by taking action. So before I rush back to ‘normality’, I am going to continue to evaluate the parts of ‘normal’ life that are within my control and most deserve my attention.

Simple truth #2: Thinking problem or solution first is a matter of perspective 

Crisis is characterised by both threat and opportunity and I think most of us would agree, the past few weeks has evoked a turbulent mix of human emotion. From the unexpected highs of reconnecting with unfamiliar faces over Zoom or the simple pleasure of working from our dressing gowns. To the lows of worrying about our job security, paying the next mortgage instalment or not knowing when we will next hug a loved one. Despite the problems we have individually faced, we have adapted. We have risen to the challenges together and we have learnt something new in the process. An unusual fact of life is that problems create space for new opportunities. Although, whether we choose to see problems or solutions to problems is a matter of our own perspective. Determined to help the nation keep fit Joe Wicks seized the opportunity last month to stream his PE classes live on YouTube as well BrewDog pivoting their business to start manufacturing hand sanitiser. By championing solutions over problems, I find it easier to not only motivate myself but others around me to find new ways to add value to the world, no matter how big or small. 

Simple truth #3: Fear of change is often driven more by our imagination than reality 

Human beings are hardwired to suffer more in our imagination than in reality and the media is primed to unlock it. Feelings of uncertainty are nothing new of course, we’ve all experienced it. Whether that’s uncertainty about accepting a new job, buying a new house or forgiving someone who has previously hurt you. The biggest difference we are facing right now is that we are all experiencing uncertainty together which in itself, is breeding extraordinaire feelings of uncertainty. As odd as it might seem, a fear of change often leads to inaction, even when decisions we fear the most are what we need the most. It’s why when navigating my greatest fear I try to challenge myself to answer two simple questions:  

1. How might I recover from my worst fears coming true? 

2. What is the cost of me taking no action by living in fear? 

When you break fear down in this way, more often than not you will be surprised to find that the cost of inaction is greater than the cost of your worst fears coming true. During times of such uncertainty, we owe it to ourselves and others to explore new ways to embrace rather than fear change, just as each of us are doing by self isolating and more than 750,000 people have done by volunteering to support the NHS. One quote I’ve cherished since childhood and that epitomises this positive change in action for me is this: ‘The brave don't live forever, but the cautious don't live at all’. 

A common enabler of these simple truths 

On reflection of these simple truths, there is one single enabler and that is mindset. Mindset is what makes these truths simple for some and difficult for others. As I’ve discovered in the past three weeks, an adaptable mindset which is open to change, willing to learn from failure and resilient in the face of adversity, is one that is primed for starting a job in the midst of a global pandemic. Not only that but it is one that is grateful for all the support, encouragement and inspiration it continues to receive from others as a welcome consolation whilst in isolation.