WE ARE experiencing a lot of anxieties and loneliness. More so, the impact of headlines on our mental health. Thus, we have to put together principles that will help us deal with what we are currently going through, not just with the whole pandemic but with transitioning into this alternative world.
First things first, we have to show up for our lives fully. So many of us right now we're feeling so hopeless. I have so many mentees right now telling me “Coach Pat, what's the point?” And so the key is to still have a vision and plan for our lives even if things do get cancelled. We still need to show up for our life. Let's restart with goal-setting.
The second piece is the gratitude component. Not just practicing gratitude once a year when we get together with our families but making it a daily practice -- taking a time our every 24 hours to know what are five good things that happen in our day.
And the last component is giving back. It has to be more than just about us. We have to think on how we can help our neighbors and really show up for other people.
However, added financial strain and Covid-19 exposure risk have made those formerly-evergreen channels for altruism less realistic for many. Fortunately, there are other avenues for giving back.
Offer a free community class with your favorite skill. Spirituality and wellness provide the gift of peace, rejuvenation, and connection. Now more than ever, we need that. If you have any skills related to religious leadership, spirituality, fitness, the arts, or wellness, consider donating your talents and/or professional skill sets by offering a free class for your community. Most, if not all, of these services can be offered virtually.
Sell your favorite skill as a fundraiser.
Similar to the idea above, you may hold a talent that people are willing to pay for as a fundraiser. Consider “selling” a service or product that you provide and donating the proceeds to charity.
Reach out to volunteer with local churches or charities...again.
Maybe you would have loved to get involved with volunteering during the onset of the pandemic, but you needed to take care of your own household first. If you feel more stable now, and if it is safe for you to do so, consider revisiting the option to volunteer.
Shop at small businesses as they get back on their feet.
Small businesses have suffered due to Covid-19 restrictions. Continue to support local restaurants and cafes. Attend your local farmers’ market. Make your spending count.
Celebrate for a cause.
Your summer celebrations (within the limits of the pandemic safety, of course) can generate donations for an organization working for justice. Use Facebook’s birthday donation feature to invite donations in honor of your birthday to a charity of your choice.
Even if you’re not in a place to make significant financial donations right now, you can still make a difference through your time, talents, and leadership. Be creative, and see what you come up with.