Embracing change in a time of COVID-19

The only certainty in life is change. We change biologically, physically, and mentally in an almost constant natural cycle – often without even noticing – as we grow and develop throughout life. Other changes are self-directed and actively sought-after; driven by desires or dreams.  And, of course, sometimes change is unexpected, sudden, and unwelcome.  

Throughout our lives, we each experience all three. Though we all have the natural ability to cope with whatever life throws at us, sometimes we need a little support in acknowledging and accepting new and changing realities; particularly when our daily routines and regularities are shifting – as they are for us all right now – day by day.  

The lifestyle changes we are currently collectively facing are – for our generation – unprecedented. It is no wonder that so many of us feel off-kilter, discombobulated, or uneasy: we are all experiencing the same kind of global shock. Whatever our circumstances, we are all having to make changes and sacrifices to daily life: some may bring unexpected pleasures, others financial hardship, all set against the backdrop of an ever-present news cycle. 

All of us are responding in different ways: and all are equally valid responses. For introverts, the impulse to hunker down may come naturally. For extroverts, social distancing may bring up fears of isolation. Wherever we are on the spectrum, it’s important that we give ourselves the time and mental space to adjust to this new normal.  

Of course, it’s completely natural to experience anxiety at a time of change; this is simply our body’s way of setting our systems on high-alert in unpredictable times. Anxiety isn’t something to fear, change, silence, or cure, but rather acknowledge and explore – working out the things that are within our circle of control, and learning to accept those that are not.  None of us know what the coming weeks or months may look like, and this uncertainty can be unsettling. But uncertainty can also be a motivator, and even a catalyst for deeper personal change; disrupting old ways of thinking and leading us to new and improved ways of being.  

Perhaps this space is your chance to dream, plan, or reinvent. Perhaps it will give you the courage to take steps you had hesitated from taking before; to let go of things you thought were important but are not; or to step up and become the person you always felt you were. Businesses may use this gap to contemplate their future: some will be inspired to diversify, adapt, and change; others will have a value shift; some may decide to let go and do something different entirely.  

Talking to a trusted, trained professional who is outside your immediate social circle can help you work through the multitude of fears, feelings, and –  yes, dreams – that this period of change will bring to us all. 

This is an unsettling time for many of us, and many of us – those in work, freelancers, business owners, and individuals – have been drawn to reflect on these changes professionally and personally. As a life coach, that means no face-to-face meetings for a little while, but I will always be available on the end of the phone for anybody who needs support during this time of change. I offer a free, one hour consultation, with prices that reflect the difficulties people are facing – I do not want to turn anybody who needs support away for financial reasons. I look forward to hearing your story and supporting you through whatever challenges you are facing right now.

Together, we can find a new way to cope.