What To Do Next
In the past few weeks, we all have been living with a feeling of uncertainty because we do not know what is going to be the course of our new way of living as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. So far, most businesses have closed, we have been ordered to keep social distance and we have been asked to stay at home to reduce the spread of the disease. This is a new situation for the whole world. It has affected the core of our daily life as we know it.
Uncertainty is perhaps the most difficult feeling to deal with. Not knowing what is going to happen and for how long makes us feel despair especially for all of us who thought we had our lives under control. This uncertainty can break our spirit if we allow it. For all of us whose planned life was always a prescription to stay sane, these times can be confusing; for all of us who have the constant need to be surrounded by people, these days can feel very lonely. This list can go on and on.
We are only left with the question: “What to do next?” This is an important question when we are basically ordered to stop and not to do anything. Perhaps, not doing anything is the right thing to do. We are facing the reality of having to learn new ways and explore new possibilities to overcome all the feelings of losing control, of anxiety and fear. Not doing anything is a good opportunity to allow ourselves to feel more without labeling or judging our feelings. There is not a good or right feeling as long as we are opening ourselves up to live this experience with an open heart. While we allow ourselves to feel, it’s a good idea to pay attention to how we are going about our daily routine. We might be learning new ways to live and still find purpose to our living.
The most important thing we can do now while we are physically distant from our family, friends, work and daily activities is to develop a relationship with ourselves. We can give ourselves permission to ride this roller coaster in any constructive way that works for us. There are days that are darker than others and we are learning to be honest with ourselves and to find the strength within us. If we don’t learn to find strength and peace within ourselves now, we will forever keep trying to find them from external sources. If we think about it and if we really try to make the best of the chaos, we will somehow evolve into more mindful and aware human beings.
While we are at feeling and reflecting, we can always reach out to others who are probably feeling and thinking the same as we are. This situation has touched the lives of everyone regardless of social status, religion or race. We are all in the same situation and trying to make the best of it. It is an opportunity to begin to relate to each other with more honesty and openness. We can turn this period of inactivity and challenge into the rebirth of a new way of living and a new awareness.
What are you doing next?
Embrace uncertainty. Some of the most beautiful chapters in our lives won’t have a title until much later.
-Bob Goff