An Unprecedented Year

 

Pivot and reimagine are two words that are regularly used over the last 18 months. When I think about these words, they have signified for me positive changes in my work and personal life, but for others fear and anxiety are the feelings they invoke. 

Fortunately, I have had the immediate and present support of my loved ones, who have encouraged me while I explored and embarked on new and different things for myself. Case in point, creating and writing this Blog. 

I paused this week to think about those individuals whose experience of the words pivot and reimagine have not been positive. Not because they wouldn’t want it to be, but because they have not been able to mentally or emotionally support this process on their own. 

Recently, I was asked to talk about something positive that I was currently experiencing. I told the group that a few weeks ago I faced my fear of heights by going tree top trekking and zip lining and I inspired them to do the same and face a fear of their own. 

One person commented that they faced their fears everyday by just showing up for work virtually. I initially laughed at the comment, but then paused as it sank in because truth be told , while this person may have been joking, it could potentially also be a stark reality of what they were dealing with. 

We are constantly hearing through many mediums to reach out to those who may be isolated or alone during this period. How many times have we really made this a priority as we struggle through our own issues? 

The truth is, with this extended period of isolation, many people are struggling. Struggling to sign in online to work everyday. Struggling as they go without the emotional and mental support and stimulation from their social groups at work, church or even within their family structures daily. 

It’s easy for many of us to have the words pivot, reimagine, reinvent roll off our tongues, because for us, it may not be so difficult to do these things. As we all face the fear surrounding this virus, today I ask that we specially consider those who are facing this and all their other fears alone.

Be patient with someone, be understanding about their feelings, listen and DO NOT JUDGE. People may in their effort to cope, do things that are totally out of character, but this could also be a signal cry for help. 

Try to educate yourself about the people around you, and how best you can help them. Be thoughtful in your actions and comments, show up as a friend, family or colleague and truly see people for what they may be experiencing at this time.

~ Tam~