The Great Reset - Part One

We are in the midst of something most of us have never seen before in our lives. In fact, you would have to go back to World War II and the Great Depression era to get somewhat of an idea of what is going on. Governments worldwide are grappling with how to combat COVID-19 and keep their citizens safe, as well as, making sure the economy is still working. Mass panic set and an eerie sense was in the air. Toilet paper shortages, mask shortages, PPE shortages, ventilator shortages, cleaning supply shortages, and the list can go on and on. Many are working from home; whereas, others are sitting at home wondering when they will get back to work and if their employer is going to reopen once the mandates have been lifted. There is uncertainty and isolation both having its toll on people’s mental health. All this to say we do have hope and we do have a path out. The world we live in will definitely look different than it did before the COVID-19 pandemic; however, we are humans, we adapt, and in fact things may be better when this is all said and done.

Here are somethings that I have noticed during this time.  First, many people are stuck at home working as they have to work remote right now; or they are furloughed due to their jobs not being essential; and others that have been completely let go. The COVID-19 pandemic is not only affecting the immune systems of millions of people worldwide, it is also affecting the livelihoods of millions upon millions of people worldwide. Many small, medium, and large businesses are completely shuttered and hoping to weather this storm as well. The recovery may or may not be swift; however, the world has always come back from economic downturns and pandemics and this situation will not be any different.

Many people are being isolated with family, roommates, or by themselves. All are processing these current states of events differently and are being affected by it somehow. Some are processing the loss of income and job security; others are dealing with the actual illness and the fear of what will happen next. The emotional state of this pandemic may be more deadly than the actual illness itself. Many are dealing with their personal demons and figuring out how to become healthy. Others are in survival mode trying to figure out how they are going to make ends meet and how to keep themselves safe; as well as, those they care about being safe. Some are battling anxiety, depression, fear, stress, and so many other emotions that getting out of bed and moving to the living room is a chore upon itself. Then there are others that are planning their next moves and how they are going to use this time to start and finish projects that they never had the time to do. Some are coming up with new business opportunities and services that will not only benefit them; however, will benefit others. Then there are those that are essential businesses and they go out to work every day whether it as a medical professional, military, first responders, apartment complex workers, grocery store workers, truckers, producers, delivery drivers, and so many other professions out there. Some of them are seeing how bad this illness is and the ripple effect it has on the patient, themselves, the patient’s family, and other loved ones. The effect of them going home and quarantining themselves away from their loved ones so they won’t get infected as they don’t want to have what they brought home on themselves into their loved one’s world.

You see, we are all dealing with this in some form or fashion. We are all in this fight together. No matter how you are dealing with this new norm for the moment it is okay. You have to do what is best for you. I have seen posts and sayings out there that if you are not doing XYZ then it just means you are not disciplined, motivated, or dedicated. Well I am sorry; however, that is just not true. Every person is different, and every person is dealing with this in different ways. Yes, logic will say to utilize this time to be productive and creative; however, as I mentioned above it does not always look like that. In prior posts, I have said that there is no magical three steps and you are successful. If today, you got up, took a shower, and talked to a friend or family member and that looks like success for you today then fantastic. I am proud of you. You got this! One step at a time. Marathon runners train for months and years to do their marathons. It takes dedication, determination, and routine.

Wherever you are in your process during this quarantine you are doing great and you will come out of this better than when you stepped into it. One thing about leadership and life is we are all human and that we all process differently and get through things differently. These blanket statements meant to encourage can also have the opposite effect and does not take into consideration what an individual is going through. Instead of blanket statements let’s have empathy, emotional intelligence, and realize that not everyone is going to have a great business idea and you know what that is okay. Not everyone is going to setup a blog, a side hustle, or whatever you think they should be doing because that is not their story but your story. Let us quit comparing what others are doing and judging them for what they may or may not be doing; because frankly some are just surviving. Encourage them in a way that is unique to them and that will go a lot further than saying you aren’t a success because XYZ.

As an individual waiting to know when things will go back to a more routine do whatever it is that makes you feel safe. If during this time you are making life decisions about what you want your life to look like when this is over. Start making those plans now, no matter how difficult. If you are wanting to be a healthier mentally, emotionally, spiritually, physically. Do the work and you will make huge moves in the future; however, make those first steps. If you were wondering who your people are and those that were there before this time have not been around talking to you and only talking to you when you check-in, it may be time to reevaluate who you keep in your life and who goes away. There is a season for every relationship and sometimes those seasons are short, and others are long. Do what make you healthy and happy and keep those around that encourage you along the way. Those are the keepers.

If during this time, you are in a fog due to your job and source of income is completely taken away. I definitely understand. Take the time to grieve and let the fog clear. This type of grief takes time and is different for everyone to process, so do what you can and reach out to others you trust or non-profits that are set up to help through this time. Lean in and figure out what you want and where you want to go next. However, do not feel that you need to rush through this process as it is not simple to deal with this and there is no quick fix, you have to go through the process. By going through this process you will be stronger, more understanding, and you very well may find your purpose during this time.

All in all, no one is identical and everyone’s process is different; however, no matter where you are in your personal process keep going you will make it. If you to need block the negatives out via social media, and news, block it out. Just be you and you will get through this. In fact, we all will get through this. Oh yeah, remember to wash your hands, don’t touch your face, and keep six feet apart. Do your part to stop the spread!

This post is dedicated to the millions of medical professionals, first responders, grocery store workers, supply chain personnel, scientists, and others working so we all can be safe, fed, and healthy. You are the true hero’s in the world. I personally am praying for you during this time. May God Bless you, protect you, and use you to heal!

Be Bold! Be Courageous! Be Fearless!

 Joel Mark