As we wrap up week three of self-isolation at our house, I can’t help but reflect on what a long, strange three weeks it has been. Who knew that COVID-time would be similar to dog years?

Most days I find myself continuing to race from one “to do” to another, in spite of the obvious changes in the rhythm of life. Whether my activities are in service to others or the tasks are self-inflicted distractions, I know the distractions of the pandemic make me less productive. Anyone else feeling this way?

When I think about my own reaction to current events, I wonder how many others are more comfortable “doing” than “being.” 

• What if you gave yourself permission to just “be”? What would happen?
• How are you at being alone, focusing only on what you can control (which may only be your reaction, attitude, and/or behavior)? 
• What are you doing to be intentionally and truly present with others – either real time with family or through virtual connections with colleagues, friends, and family beyond the walls of your home?

We will never get this time back. Rather than spend it worrying or bemoaning what has changed, how can you be more intentional with your time each day? What can you learn about yourself, your family, your team, those you have always said were most important in your life?

Michael Brainard reminded me of the Stockdale Paradox in an informative webinar he presented on psychological responses to crisis. Author Jim Collins describes the Paradox as he relates a conversation where Admiral Stockdale said, “You must never ever confuse, on the one hand, the need for absolute, unwavering faith that you can prevail despite those constraints with, on the other hand, the need for the discipline to begin by confronting the brutal facts, whatever they are.” 

New constraints are a way of life right now, and both the facts and the stories we create to fill in the gaps can seem overwhelming.  

“You must never ever confuse, on the one hand, the need for absolute, unwavering faith that you can prevail despite those constraints with, on the other hand, the need for the discipline to begin by confronting the brutal facts, whatever they are.”

Whether you are leading yourself, a team of executives, or two preschoolers and a spouse, recognize the facts as they are and acknowledge the many unknowns. Then take a deep breath, identify at least one thing for which you are grateful today, and hold fast to the reality that we WILL get past this – together – stronger and more resilient than ever.  

https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/human-doing-being-phyllis-sarkaria/