Survival

Granted, this time in history is like nothing we have ever experienced. However, there is one thing that has never changed: the way in which we respond to crisis situations. This response is our own unique manner in which we handle interruptions to our regular routines. Perhaps this comes as a shock to you, and maybe you think I’ve lost it. Truthfully, this is the first time I’ve written these words and realized it myself.

Let’s test this theory out. Think about the issues that were problematic for you pre-pandemic. How did you handle them? What was your state of mind? Did you ever put those issues into perspective over anything else in your circumstances? Back to Pandemic mode, everything rearranged, we’re confronted with many unknowns about how to move life forward. Think again. Has anything about your response system changed? Can you identify any differences in your thought process? What happen to those life perspectives?

Recovery mode. We’re aware of the devastation and loss the world has suffered. We’ve dealt with our own personal situations, layered with degrees of grief or pain. Here’s the point: There is a survival mode that leads to us coming out better on the other side.

It’s not about how much you have, your position in life, or even about your level of intelligence or spirituality. It’s about your mind: How you think, what you think about, and where you think you are actually affect what happens in real time. It’s more than self-talk, prayer, meditation, or positive thinking (all good life-changing habits). Coming out better on the other side is tightly linked to what you believe about you! If you don’t believe that you are worth putting in the time to cooperate with who you are inside, the outside will never measure up.

Evidence of not doing a “better you” may not show up in loud obvious ways; it’s often in soft subtle ways.

• You started that project you loved and haven’t touched it again.
• You have no time to organize your food/movement plan, closets, or family/friends’ commitments.
• You feel stressed! The demands of everything and everyone else has pounded a permanent pain path in your head.
• You honestly cannot remember the last thing you did for yourself and have no idea where the real you resides.
• You are quick to dissect your shortcomings and find fault with your own efforts.

Pick up some survival mode gear!

• Plans are your friend (schedules, to-do list, activities, objectives, alternatives…). The time you spend constructing a “plan of action” will more than pay for itself.
• Reinforce daily: who you are (body, mind, spirit), where your source of strength comes from (Christ the Lord), God’s promises and protections over you.
• Put yourself on the list. Make self-care a regular habit and celebrate you!
• No excuses, you can do this! Woman, aren’t you the enforcer – managing programs and schedules for everyone (home, work, church), thriving on being dependable and available, plus you drive, shop, clean, cook, and wash?
• Leave some TLC in your new routines and goals. Avoid emotional spins by filtering in a plan B. Remember, baby steps are good, they keep you growing.

At the end of the day, if we keep going through without learning from what we’ve been through, change will be a challenge that strips away and empties our wellbeing. Let’s begin again. Start the search and definition of the best you ever!