Pause, Reboot, Reflect, Refresh

The coronavirus pandemic has proven to be challenging for so many people.

Difficult times for self, for our relationships, for our family, for our teams, for organisations and for businesses.

Unlike so many others, for us, we have (so far) been blessed with good health.

Counting blessings is something we all need to do if we are to be both resilient and productive over the next few months.

Up until three weeks ago our work (and personal/social) diaries were not just full, they were booked solid for most of 2020. Then suddenly, with everyone postponing programmes until ‘things have settled down’, hopefully later in the year- nothing!

I will be honest. It was hard not to fall into denial.

“What’s all the fuss about? It’s only the flu! Total overreaction!!”

Then transition into frustration and even anger kicked in.

“We have bills to pay! No work, no income!! How will be cope?”

From a personal point of view, the sadness and feelings of disempowerment and depression hit me after a couple of weeks, but then, after walking around (the house) like a bear with a sore head for a while (apologies to my family), things started to look positively different and better.

It was bound to be so (Kubler-Ross)!

Obviously, there is still some way to go for everyone but taking a reframed, positive mental attitude and perspective can and does make a big difference.

So where am I now?

As I see it, what a wonderful opportunity I have to

·       Take some time out and rest (and sleep)

·       Catch up (on-line) with friends and colleagues

·       Doing some reflection and planning for the future

·       Completing that on-line Sailing Navigation course that I’ve been wanting to finish off forever, but couldn’t find the time

·       Spend some quality time with the people I love

·       Doing the things that really matter

So, what have I learned?

1.          Don’t be a victim

2.          Find daily success doing small things well

3.          Keep in a state of cause

4.          Be grateful for everything

5.          Live mindfully for today

6.          Be kind to yourself (and others)

7.          Look for the positives

8.          Setting some personal goals for motivation

9.          Forgiveness is a release

My advice to anyone would be

·       Stop listening to your negative inner voice

·       Stop being emotionally influenced by the media (search for facts and maintain perspective)

·       Stop worrying about the small stuff

·       Talk (and listen) more and keep a reflective journal

·       Be positive in your outlook and write a letter of gratitude to yourself (and others)

·       Regularly positively affirm

·       Live for today. Tomorrow will look after itself.

"We are not stuck at home. We are safe at home."

Change your mindset today.

Keep well.