Early one morning I received a text “for your consideration”. I rise with the sun and always use the first few hours of my days to welcome new information. This is when my mind is fresh and clear before any outside stimuli creeps in or my internal self talk begins. I put a pot of coffee on the stove and waited for the all too familiar sound of bubbling while I eagerly opened the image attached to the text.
The image was titled, “Who do I want to be during COVID-19?” At first I paused, contemplating if I even had a choice…..I mean I was a victim like everyone else right? Quarantined, isolated, my business decimated, worried about my health, my loved ones, money, and most importantly when and if this would all be over. Then I re read the question and looked at the image again.
The answer came to me in a whisper. I want to be the best version of myself. I want to be authentic, strong and believe that we are all in this together. I want to love and be loved. I want to live each day to the fullest regardless of the restrictions we are facing. I want to WIN!
In order to win I had to grow and in order to grow I had to take a good look at myself and decide . Decide to be present-Decide to be positive-Decide to be brave. I had to get into the growth zone!
Who do you want to be during COVID-19?
Imagine three circles all representing stages or Zones;
Zone 1- Fear represented by actions such as grabbing food, toilet paper and medications from the store that I didn’t need. Spreading emotions related to fear and anger. Complaining frequently. Getting mad easily etc.
Zone 2-Learning represented by identifying my emotions, starting to give up what I can’t control. Stop consuming what hurts me from news to food. To become aware of the situation and think how to behave and to recognize that we are all trying to do our best.
Zone 3-Growth Represented by kind acts towards others, servicing by making my talents available, showing empathy, thanking and appreciating others. Maintaining a happy mindset and spreading hope. Looking for a way to adapt to change while practicing patience, creativity and quietude in my relationships.
Like seasons, change comes whether we invite it or not. I urge you to embrace it and hope you too can get into the zone.
