As we all settle into week #5 of social distancing and self-quarantine, think about everything that has happened and changed around you. 

 

Social distancing, flattening the curve, the way we work, the way we communicate and gather suddenly means something very different than it did one month ago.

Social norms are changing, and changing dramatically, right before our eyes. 

 

You can’t expect to have gone through all of these changes in such a short period of time and not have it take a toll on your mindset and mental well being… especially if you live in one of the harder-hit areas.

 

What does your mindset have to do with this pandemic?

 

Everything!

 

Have you noticed that your emotions are shifting around during the course of the day more than usual?

Perhaps one minute you’re fine and another minute anxiety rushes in.

That is completely normal. It is actually a way that our brains function to protect us. Your brain is wired to be vigilant and to scan the horizon for potential warning signs. Right now, like it or not, your brain is on high alert.

 

The truth is that none of us really know what’s going to happen one moment to the next. It’s just that usually we trick ourselves into believing that life is predictable and somehow under our control. 

 

Life is precarious under the best of circumstances and now we are repeatedly hit with this stark reality.

Now more than ever it is vital to look out for your mental and emotional health, as well as that of our loved ones, friends, family, and coworkers.

 

Finding a way to restore calm, peace, and grace is more important now than it has ever been in most of our lifetimes.

 

Rising in the face of this pandemic means not only being able to feel the feelings and carry on with our own lives but also becoming a positive force that impacts those around us. Spreading kindness, humor, calm, and compassion creates a ripple effect that can make a tremendous difference.

 

This is leadership.