As we move through this pandemic, that has us in such uncertain times I am seeing a new phase with others and myself. The phase is that people are getting fed up and overwhelmed. Any newness to self-isolating is wearing off, our homes are clean, organized or not, we have done enough jigsaw puzzles to last a lifetime, or not, and read more books and binged watched more shows than we ever thought possible, or not. In other words, we are reaching our tolerance for this phase.
As well, other life events are occurring that push us emotionally when we have already been pushed farther than we can imagine possible. Some events, like cars breaking down, or noisy neighbors or the coldest, cloudiest, snowiest spring on record ( Like here where I am at the moment) are relatively minor and normally would be taken in stride, but when we have the weight of the pandemic on our shoulders can feel like way too much! Other events, like the mass shooting in Nova Scotia, my native province, in and of themselves boggle the mind, crush the soul and break the heart. And amidst this pandemic, is, well there are no words to describe what it is.
So as I look around, see, and hear others feeling overwhelmed I am reminded of one of the most important pieces of Resiliency. That combination of skills and attitudes that gets us through anything, and I do mean anything. That piece is Gratitude. I know we hear a lot about it these days and maybe you are feeling like it is a bit of an overused term. Gratitude works, it fills our hearts, minds, and bodies with good feelings, it changes our perspective and it allows us to stay in the moment without going down the train track of the future. That is where we all need to stay right now, in the present moment, not worrying about all the what-ifs in front of us but right now this day, this moment.
I am grateful today for the love and heartfelt expression of support for all Nova Scotians. ( This is a shift from focussing solely on the losses). I am grateful that no one in my family has yet to contract Covid 19. ( This is different from focussing on the growing number of cases in my province) I am grateful for this quiet time to be with my husband, it is a special time. (This is different from focussing on all we can’t do.)
Try writing down three things you are grateful for today. Repeat them to yourself throughout the day at least three times.
An attitude of gratitude is a practice and it takes practice. A bit like fitness, you don’t just do it one day and be grateful…..make time every single day and you will notice a lighter heart, a freer step and bit more space for joy, yes even during this time of Covid-19.
Stay Well Stay safe.
Coach Susy
I dedicate this with love to all Nova Scotians.
