We face into a unique time in the history of world. A time that no-one foresaw, that no-one planned or wanted to happen. All parts of our lives have been affected – from how we manage our health; how we interact with friends, family and strangers; how we shop; how we educate our children and there are still many questions about how we fully return to work and the contribution we make to society.
In times of such uncertainty, ambiguity it is important that we all do all that we can to maintain our wellbeing and remain open to the prospect of a positive future on the other side of all these challenges.
We are all part of a global system that is exploring how we adapt and find ways to live in a post-pandemic world. Many of us face into a reality of conversations about the future of work and how we move beyond the restrictions of lockdown. This will involve speaking with family members, line managers, direct reports and with our colleagues.
We want to be equipped to negotiate the changes of the coming months in ways that ensure our mental and physical health and place us on a path towards fulfilling our individual and collective ambitions.
These ten tips, whilst not removing the seriousness of the challenge we are facing, will hopefully also provide a reminder of how you can look after yourself and other people through these unprecedented times.
- Recognise that emotions are present
– acknowledge that they are here rather than trying to suppress them
– it is normal and expected that these events will create a wide range of emotion
2. Notice where you are on the spectrum of your wellbeing
– it is OK to be wherever you are
– just take a moment to notice to wherever you are in each moment
The shift right or left is the fight-flight response – either fighting for survival or wanting to withdraw and hide away.
3. Give yourself space and find the voice that best represents where you are at the moment, ask yourself what you need in each moment, and know there will be times when you will again feel centred and in control.
4. When you can find this centred space, even if only for brief moments, consider what you need and prepare for the conversations you need to have.
5. Take a moment to acknowledge the person you are talking to is also on their own emotional journey. The aim is to have conversations when you are both able to access the best version of yourselves. Recognise where you are, pay attention to their emotional state and try to avoid those conversations when the energy will not create the best output for either of you.
6.Take time to listen, if you notice you are not as centred as you would like to be then ask for things to be written down.
7. Know this isn’t the only conversation you will have.
Know that there are other people who you can talk to.
Know that you can find another time to ask questions, seek clarity or share your thoughts
8. Give space for whatever you are feeling
Make time and space for whatever you need
Use your support network and ask for whatever help you need
9. Be open to opportunities as well as acknowledging the challenges.
Know that this is only one part of the story
10. Do the things that you know nurture and support you.
Engage with your resilience strategies that make the best of your Mind, Body and the resources within your Environment.
Take time out, talk to someone, get the rest you need, stay active and eat well
Clear view 