During times of economic recession things change. With that we need to adapt our frame of reference for the period. Business or deal flow slows down and dries out. Regular customers become irregular, or if you were employed you could find yourself laid-off and out of work.
An occupation means a lot to most people. Frequently they derive a sense of self through what they do; besides the actual monetary benefit of earning a steady source of income. So it is only natural for us that when things go differently, we over-extend that to include all the other areas of our life.
If for instance, someone has been out of work for a period of time, he begins thinking that he is a failure, a loser or just downright unlucky. These are merely labels we use to describe what in reality is a macro-level situation, over which we may have little or no control as individuals. What we do control however, is our internal state both mental and emotional. We need to adapt accordingly, and figure out ways to put us in states which are supportive and nurturing to us rather than take away from our sense of self-confidence and ability.
During tough times I have always found it helpful to begin with an inventory of what are the areas in my life which are actually really good right now. When I was discussing this with a colleague of mine once, she said that counting your blessings isn’t enough, because having a job or a steady source of income impacts a lot of things. It is seemingly all pervasive.
Maybe you have to hold back on that weekend holiday you’ve been planning. Or trim those extra’s at your child’s birthday party; maybe postpone some home-improvement works. All this may be true and I acknowledge it, but read on further and I’m sure you could begin to see things differently.
So what are the other areas in our lives which are also all pervasive?
Good Health
This includes both mental and physical health. Frequently we take a sound mind and a sound body for granted, both of which if they didn’t truly support us, things would be quite different.
Think about all the people in hospitals with serious illness, or those who suffer from debilitating mental illness.
A supportive Family
A loving and supportive partner, as well as children if you have any, who are understanding, caring and help to keep a balanced view of things.
Think about those who live in loneliness, or about estranged families which are torn apart due to various reasons. Marriage partners who are physically present, but emotionally and mentally absent from the relationship.
A good environment
Do you live in a region / country where there is a civil war on? Are there enemy military soldiers, or law enforcement officers engaged in daily gun battle with violent local militia? Do you have access to resources, health-care and a safe and clean environment which could support you in your interests?
Think about sub-Saharan Africa, the Middle East, and parts of south-east Asia.
Feeling better already? This is a starting point for reflection, as you start listing what resources you have right now to begin your journey back to the top or at least back to the way things were. Take the time to dwell on these, most of them are far more precious than we imagine.
So pick yourself up, dust yourself off, and start all over again.
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