Is It Possible to Support Everyone During a Crisis?

I’ve been keeping pretty quiet about my thoughts and feelings on the current situation the world is facing. Mostly, I am confused about what to think and feel.

Should I panic, should I be calm?

Should I stock up on groceries, should I not?

Should I worry, should I not?

Is this a crisis, is it not?

Is this like the flu, is it not?

Should I leave the house, should I stay home?

This event is truly unlike anything I’ve ever seen. I can’t compare it to 9-11, the recession, H1N1, SARS, or EBOLA. It’s totally different… as they all were because it’s 2020 and the world is different than those other times. However, my brain is trying to rationalize the confused thoughts in my mind by doing what it does best, comparing this situation to the situations it’s familiar with from the past.

Like many people, I’ve continued my work and try to keep up with updates. I do a ton virtually, so there’s been no change in my active schedule. I’ve kept a close eye on the news, social media, and had offline conversations with people. Everyone seems to be uncertain.

Whether I contract the virus or not, I am affected by it. (Just had to order baby formula for my niece in Michigan because all the stores are sold out).

Yesterday, I had a call to discuss an upcoming business retreat I’m participating in and whether to cancel it or not. We didn’t come to a conclusion yet, we decided to wait a little longer. That wasn’t the important part of the meeting.

What was significant is that I saw a community come together where everyone was supported. Every person on the call spoke about their thoughts and feelings and what was weighing on their minds. Everyone was listened to and shown compassion no matter what they said. Everyone was thankful for our compassionate host who demonstrated what it is to be a remarkable leader.

I left that meeting knowing now what I want to say and how I want to act regarding this crisis. It was a big learning experience for me. I thought I would share what I gleaned in case it helps anyone else.

1. Take care of yourself. Whatever that looks like to you. For me, I bought a new book, some hot chocolate and popcorn. I turned off my TV and put my phone away for the night. I watched the Flinstone’s yesterday (I have no idea why, it was on when I was changing channels, and I stopped there). For my niece, she went couponing today. She loves to coupon. It’s her therapy.

2. Keep your eyes open. One of my neighbors posted in the Nextdoor app (it’s a neighborhood app, if you don’t have it, get it) that if anyone needs help, she will run errands. I thanked her for her post and let her know I would do the same. And, I did. A friend on FB said she cried all day yesterday. I messaged her too, and let her know I’m open for a Zoom call or phone call.

3. Act compassionately. Some are joking about it. That’s ok too, you know why? That may be their way of dealing with their emotions. It is serious, and yet we must be open to the idea that people respond in their own ways.

4. Consider what you can if you have extra time? Been wanting to start on that book you’ve been thinking about? Ready to upgrade your marketing? Something on your calendar you’ve been pushing back? How about some extra play time with the kids? Take a long, hot soak in the tub with a great book. Call your mom. Now is the time to give to yourself. I love having a little spare time, it’s a gift for me.

With my extra time, I decided to register for some business webinars. It’s a great investment in my time and distracts me from the news. Pumps me up by being in community and helps me develop a plan I can be in control of too.

I decided to support others in this way too. If you have extra time and choose to invest it in your business, consider joining me for these free upcoming events to fill your cup, and get a boost of energy.

Engaging Speakers Summit: over 20 speakers offering strategies on how to use speaking to grow your business. I’m participating by sharing tips on using LinkedIn. Click here: https://speakyourwaytomorebusiness.com/jennifer

Increase Your Leads with LinkedIn Webinar hosted by me: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/99098974701

Speaker, Author, Coach Network Virtual Meet-up: https://www.speakerauthorcoach.net/virtual-meetup

My colleagues and I are working on producing a tips book on how to run a virtual event. If you’re interested in receiving some help with creating virtual events, retreats and meetings, please connect with me on LinkedIn and watch for an upcoming post.

It is possible to support everyone? Yes! Listen with compassion. Every person has their own unique way of processing. Let them go through theirs. No need to tell them what to do, or think, or diminish what they’re feeling. Give them a big, virtual hug. Open your phone to listen. Let them know they are not alone.

Positively Yours, Jennifer