Being powerful during a crisis, pt 5

Many of us are spending more time at home at the moment. But don’t turn this into a not-getting-dressed, sitting-on-the-sofa, Netflix and ice cream-eating holiday. Although, please, give yourself a break, too.

Establish and stick to your daily rhythm – get up at the same time, don’t hit the snooze button, get dressed, get ready to tackle the day, set your goals for the day and put in the work. Things may have shifted right now, but routine and keeping a sense of normality in this time of uncertainty will be helpful.

Remember, where you will be in the future is very much dependent on the actions you take today.

Self-care

Physical self-care is important; choosing to fuel your body with healthy food, sleep and exercise each day. But mental self-care is also essential, especially in this global crisis, so make sure you are taking the steps to protect your mind. Don’t be too hard on yourself.

While it is important to stay informed, try to focus your attention on positive things that bring you joy – such as dancing to music, a podcast, cooking, playing with your pets or children, listening to an audio book, or going for a walk.

Also, limit your exposure to things that are not so positive. A prime example is the news – sure, we are in a crisis, but do you need it in front of you 10 hours a day, or every 10 minutes? Could you get an update once or twice a day?

If you only surround yourself with negative content, that is where your mindset will be.

Power of contribution

Ask yourself each morning how you want to act, show up and feel that day.

If you are finding it difficult to motivate yourself because of the uncertainty and anxiety, try to focus on contribution. It is one of the biggest antidotes to fear.

Think about how your actions can help and support others – such as checking in with neighbours and the elderly, using some of your knowledge to teach others in a virtual way, starting community groups, and looking for opportunities to connect and collaborate with others in your field.

People want to know who else is in the trenches with them – and if you have got each other’s back, especially at a time like now, that’s really powerful.

If history has taught us anything, it’s that the worst of times can bring out the best in people – both individually and as a collective. It forces us to think differently and move forward with courage.

Let’s focus on doing just that.