In these unprecedented times I do hope you and those closest to you are keeping well…. “well” being the operative word here. We are being bombarded with information coming at us fast and furious. I know that everyone is overwhelmed with the adjustment to managing work and family at home as well as job security, finances, and of course, our health.
Intuitively we know that we need to put things into perspective, and that if we all do our part then this too shall soon pass, and we will be able to look back and talk about how we survived this one. I know that we all will take away a profound learning moment from this experience. We are all hurting to some extent and we are all in this together!
In working with many of my coaching clients this past week, our discussions have had little to do with their own Leadership goals. Rather, they are concerned with how to be the best leader to support their teams during this current situation, and help them balance their personal needs and work demands while practicing social distancing. Now is a time for compassion and empathy. Your team members all have different situations, especially when it comes to family and finances. Do your best to understand their situation and what they need to make the most of this difficult situation.
To everyone, my message is one of self-compassion and self-care, something we tend to forget about in times of stress. (See video below) For the most part there are few people today that have experienced something like this. There is no play book to follow based on past experiences. Know that you ARE doing your best right now to protect yourself and balance your work and family needs. It may not feel like it as your current situation may feel super uncomfortable. Allow yourself the permission to be self-compassionate, recognize your emotions for what they are, and be proud of your efforts to do your best during this time.
Now is your opportunity to focus on what you CAN control! Consider this the perfect time to do something you haven’t had time to do, e.g. personal interests, more exercise, extra rest, family time, etc. I will bet dollars to donuts that you have said many times in the past year or two “I wish I had the extra time in my life/schedule to do ….”. Well, maybe now you do, so grab that opportunity to dive in!
These times are inspiring me to look inward, give myself the permission to relax and focus on what’s truly important. My own coach suggested that I resurrect my Gratitude Journal (what a great idea!…why didn’t I think of that?). This is also a time to put the finishing touches on my upcoming work projects that drive my purpose and to complement this with some personal downtime to do some pleasure reading and professional development…. and maybe a little extra dose of Netflix!