You are stronger than you think
A year-end feel-good inspiration by Theresa Blake Manager at 21st Century
“Be kind to yourself and those around you, wherever you can. We have become so accustomed to operating at 110% in everything we do, except when it comes to looking after our mental wellbeing. We are conditioned to be “doing OK”, “managing” all the time. And always chasing!
“We all know, it has been a particularly difficult period and one where things changed on a daily basis – lockdown levels, what we were able to carry on with, what had to stop, even who we could see. For many, the change was even more devastating – loss of livelihoods, loss of loved ones. As if that was not enough, we are now faced with daily challenges wondering when the lights will go off! We really are a resilient bunch, but the culmination of all these challenges does affect us by differing degrees.
“I recently listened to Simon Sinek. And his words really inspired me. Instead of chasing after all the things on our bucket list, rather take some time to build a “reverse” bucket list.
“Move the focus away from what you have not done or have not achieved. We can all fill our buckets with tons of this!
“Certainly, we must have goals! But take a moment and reflect on what you have done, what you have achieved. You will be amazed at how much you have accomplished. None of this can be taken away from you. Be GRATEFUL for the things you can tick off on this “reverse” bucket list. Perhaps you won’t complete that IRON MAN challenge, but at least you progressed from a slow walk to a 5km jog! Well done!! Perhaps you were not top of your class, but you achieved that pass! Congratulations!! You survived an illness or complication that was thrown your way. So happy for you!!! Despite your fear of heights, you managed to walk over the bridge. So proud of you!!! This is your bucket list of achievements. Keep filling it up and draw from it as often as you need.
“As we head towards the “silly” season of December and the end of another year, pressures and stresses increase. Instead of being caught up in the hype, offer little acts of kindness to yourself and those around you.
“Make your New Year’s resolutions. But also think over what you have done and achieved in the past year. You may be amazed at what a lot you have packed into this time. When we constantly chase that elusive pot of gold at the end of the rainbow, we miss out on all the colours along the way.
“As an employer and a manager of people, remember that you always have an influence on the people around you. Wellness can be contagious, just the same way as disease has been. Perhaps these last few weeks of an old year and the start of a new year are an opportune time to create some positive influence and change.”
ENDS
