Have you noticed how each person has managed the lockdown situation in their own way?
There are those who are delighted that the world has finally woken up to their way of working; who have been saying for years that working from home is the way to go! And then there are those who feel trapped, frustrated and cannot wait to get out. And then there are those who feel lonely, cut off form doing what they love; connecting to people every day, checking in with them and talking about life and work and family.
It can be quite fun to watch.
But in truth, there is something about a crisis that strips us down to the core of who we are. In fact, this is where you will see people for who they really are and it may even have surprised you.
Feeling in control is a fundamental human need. Control is simply about having choice; having the freedom to dictate what you do and when you do it. When things change in a way where you feel that this control has been restricted in any way, you will immediately seek to regain the balance. Stress really is just an indicator that you are no longer feel in control. Your stress level will then increase the longer it takes for that sense of control to return. The more stressed you are, the more you will grab and even panic. Unfortunately this is seldom useful in a work context, especially when it comes to working together.
So how can you realistically rebalance when you cannot simply change your circumstances?
They key is knowing how to "cheat".
Each of your dominant Signature themes dictates how control should look in your life. The key to the "cheat" is knowing how to give that control back but within the context of your reality (keep and eye on your dashboard for a special link to get access to the cheat sheet).
For me I need clarity on the road ahead (My most dominant theme is Strategic). So I have realised that taking two hours first thing in the morning to think and plan without disruption, has been key to managing my own stress. And it has made all the difference.
So take time to get to know yourself. There really is no better opportunity.
And then be more gracious and patient to those around you who may be really struggling.
