Transforming Isolation to Freedom: The Gifts of COVID19

Written by Rocío Pérez, Founder & CEO of Inventiva & International Bestselling Author of Unstoppable: 7 Steps To Becoming A More Intentional Leader

April 16, 2020

During these times of isolation and physical distancing, uncertainty and global chaos, I look back at my past, back at times when I have created a new experience out of disappointment or unexpected change. 

I vividly remember an experience with my young son, Victor. We had planned a camping trip, but could not go because it was raining. Fighting disappointment, I realized that it wasn’t so much about ‘where’ we were going camping, as it was about ‘what’ we were going to do. In reality, camping represented sharing time, bonding, telling stories and having fun, not just the experience of being in nature. 

So, I decided to bring these experiences to our home, by pitching a tent in the middle of the living room. My son loved our adventure so much that for years he pitched a tent in the living room or basement and invited his friends to join him in the fun. Today, we often pitch a tent for my grandson, Emilio; he too experiences the magic my son once did. 

We have the power to create the world we live in. It is the key to our successes. I am a life-long rebel, always questioning things that did not make sense to me (very different than being a Devil’s Advocate). For instance, I made the decision to go to college when I was 15-years old, despite having a 6th-grade education and no family support. I simply kept asking myself, “How else can I go to college?” until I heard the response I wanted. After all, it was my dream. I was going to become a teacher and inspire others.

Now I find myself advocating for others. I continue to learn the power of advocating, once from a homeless mother and daughter family. I was walking in downtown Denver when we encountered each other. They asked me for something to eat. I thought about it quickly and invited them to Subway. The mom thanked me and stated, “We are gluten-free.” “Can we go to the Fresh Cook Market instead?” I agreed. Today, if I do not see something on the menu I can eat, I ask for something I can. 

Furthermore, some of the greatest things I have learned in life have been: 

1. Connect through our humanity. I continually look for ways to stop, look, listen, observe, step back, analyze and understand. I decipher information, make conscious decisions, and create a plan to take consistent action, 
2. Create new meaning to things. We can give a new meaning to isolation. Consider these meanings; connection, creativity, curiosity and fun? Let’s commit to encouraging others, while we encourage ourselves, 
3. Let’s purposefully find new ways to stay connected and engaged. Today, I connect with my friends online and through video, 
4. Personally be that beacon of light - uplifting people in your immediate circle and they will do the same for their immediate circles, and 
5. Be the role model for others to follow. Remember our words are powerful and actions are transformative. We learn by example, by what we hear, and what we experience in others. 

The truth, it is not what happens to us, it is how we respond to what happens to us. It is ok to have our cake and eat it too. Some call it leftovers. We now have a new opportunity, to connect and celebrate birthdays, accomplishments, and holidays, online. Embrace technology as the gateway to connect and communicate with others. Remember the energy of what we are saying is more important than what we say; if we are upset and say something positive, our negative energy will shine though. Help others to think, speak and advocate for themselves. Encourage diversity of thought and creativity. We never know where that next spark of genius will come from. 

I am here to help. How can I serve you and your team to work in this new reality, stay inspired, connected and productive during uncertain times? Call me at 303.587.8367 or email me at [email protected].