What To Prioritize In Uncertain Times
We find ourselves in strange, unforgiving times.
The spread of a novel virus and global pandemic has put almost every human on the planet in a vulnerable position. Our social, working and life goals for the moment put on hold.
It may be easy to spend these confined days feeding into the collective worry and seeking sources of comfort to ease the tension afterwards. A exercise in adding unnecessary stress to already complicated lives.
In reality, now offers an opportunity for us to have dedicated time to recharge and equip ourselves for what comes next. Using this time wisely, when can assure ourselves of coming out better on the other side.
Here’s some ideas on what to focus on during times of crisis.
Health: If we’re good to our bodies they will be good to us.
We should always be taking the time to sustain and better our wellbeing. During a time of uncertainty is no different.
Moments like these reveal how just how fragile life is. Where events far outside our control and vicinity can profoundly alter our way of life. All the training, nutrition and psychology could hardly prepare us for what we’re currently facing.
In this face this, being in good health is our best first line of defence. From both a physical point of view and mental one (for the invisible threats), good health should be the foundation from which we build everything.
Learning new skills: Being stuck inside, most of us will find ourselves spending long hours surfing the web or binging a show.
While easy entertainment is well-needed, more free time offers the chance to start a new hobby or learn a new skill.
Taken a step further, evaluating how we can future-proof our current skills and make ourselves more attractive within our occupations is a powerful exercise. Even more so given the pace of change in a working world that may look dramatically different in just a few months time.
Re-purposing just an hour a day can help provide a headstart in professional development and make continuing the practice easier when routines return to normal.
Relationships: What may first seem like an opportunity to isolate is actually quite the opposite.
The opportunity to go all-in on building relationships.
As we’re forced to decrease social activities and withdraw into secluded lives, people will crave human connection more than ever. A void will have opened that needs to be filled.
Reach out to that friend you’ve been meaning to catch up with. Call someone to check-in. Share something you find funny/insightful/interesting. Offer to lend a hand.
Make it known that you care and that you’re still there.
Exploring new interests: This quote says it best:
“The best time to start was yesterday. The next best time is now.”
If you’re waiting for the perfect moment to work on a passion or pursue a new interest, stop waiting. There will never be an opportunity more perfect than the present moment.
Take the time to explore something that’s frequently been on the back-burner. Exploration often brings with it enthusiasm and renewed energy, welcomed companions in uncertain times such as these.
Giving back: In times of need, it’s easy to look upon your current situation and feel a sense of unease. Grey storm clouds seem to be rolling in from each direction.
Yet, for many of us, we’re quite lucky. There’s often people out there who may be finding things especially tough.
Take time to consider what others are going through and how best our talents and resources can help. Things such as helping out a neighbour, having a (virtual) coffee with an aspiring professional or donating to a food bank are simple ways to give back.
What little we can offer might mean the world to someone else.
How are you making use of additional time spent at home?
Thanks for reading and sharing! Clapping 👏 👏 shows your appreciation and helps friends to find this article too.
