The Corona Virus pandemic that is currently challenging the world has led to accelerated change and unsettled lives. We can look at this period from a negative viewpoint or see it as an opportunity to really look deeply at the way we live and the life lessons we are learning. Could it be possible that amid the pandemic we are learning the skills to thrive and help our personal growth.
Thriving is the ability to prosper, flourish and develop well. We can progress toward and realize a goal despite or because of particular life circumstances. With this in mind flourishing does not require life to be easy. It is often the case that we learn most through experiencing adversity. The trying circumstances, such as those we have now, highlight areas that are important to us or those we wish to change.
The pandemic has asked us to reach into a deeper well of understanding about ourselves than we previously realized. Daily we have been challenged by changing circumstances in regard to work, education, and community life. Just when we feel our vigilance decline, more cases are identified and need to be dealt with. We are learning to adjust to these stressors and to develop inner strength and resourcefulness. The social distancing and hygiene measures instigated previously feel like normal adjustments to our daily lives. When we are faced with challenging circumstances, we have become braver.
This time has also given us an opportunity to focus on our wellbeing. It has become a priority to gently instigate strategies to keep ourselves safe and healthy. This may include honouring our energy levels with rest when we need it and adequate sleep. We are delving into our cookbooks and with the added time in isolation nourished our bodies. Meals and family time have become a focal point of our day. It has also been a time to honour ourselves emotionally. When situations have felt beyond our control it has been important to allow ourselves to cry or grieve changed circumstances. In that sense rather than bravery, it is a softness and acceptance that has been required.
How we perceive world events is also important. So much of media attention has focused on the frightening nature of the virus and the repercussions to our lives. It is important to counterbalance this with a reality check of what things are still o.k. Family Psychotherapist, Susan Stiffelman, suggests a daily exercise to focus on ‘Five things that went well today’ to promote a balanced life view.
In this troubled time, we are seeing what is important in our lives. Our neighbourhoods and communities have been places for us to actively reach out and support each other on a deeper level. Whether through making sure people have the physical requirements they need or offering a listening ear to offload concerns. Our once busier lives, on pause, have allowed compassion and empathy for others to arise. We are remembering and practicing ‘We are so much better together’. The hope is that this community cohesion continues beyond the pandemic.
“I feel the capacity to care is the thing which gives life its deepest significance”
Pablo Casals
Families that had been busy and disconnected from each other, realized the importance of contact and hugs. Grandparents missed grandchildren. Generations supported each other through the challenges. We missed our friends and the activities we shared together. What we had taken for granted took on a new deliciousness as we desired what was currently unavailable.
For some, the changing work or life circumstances have been an opportunity to incubate new projects. With lock downs and more opportunity to reflect, dreams of new directions in life can take shape. It may be in the form of a new business, a creative pursuit, or even a change of address. With this new lens on life we are given an opportunity to manifest new possibilities.
Living through this pandemic has shown us how precious and fragile life is. For many it has prompted the desire to live more fully and without regret. This period of adversity may have a ‘silver lining’. A conscious opportunity to evaluate and choose what is important in our lives. A possibility to thrive.