We are in the midst of unprecedented times around the world. We have been asked to shelter in place, refrain from human face to face interaction, a basic necessity for most of us, and for many others, reduced hours, temporary layoffs and terminations. Yes, we are slowly starting to emerge, however to what new normal will we be facing?
As an Executive and Sales Coach, many people have come to me, in the past, looking at how to improve their processes, close difficult gaps, and or how to make the necessary changes to advance their careers.
By demonstrating empathy, understanding, compassion, and a penchant to grab on to others long term goals and objectives, I feel I have enhanced the lives of others. Creating the space for them to invent and create is extremely powerful.
And then the company that contracted my services, told me that in a cost cutting move due to COVID-19, they needed to terminate my employment. I wish I could solve this pandemic. I wish I could help support those who have lost their jobs and are living in fear. I wish I could wave a magic wand and have everything go back to normal. But the truth is I cannot, and the further point is, when this is over, there will be that new normal. So, let’s move forward, starting now.
First of all, it’s perfectly okay to feel what you feel. Remember though, your job does not define who you are.
I get it. We are angry. We are frustrated. We are nervous and we are scared. We worked hard to establish our value, and someone unceremoniously decided that, in the best interest of their company, given these times, they must let you go. It sucks, and it hurts. And it is okay to feel that way. Process those feelings as you will need to, in order to heal. And then let those nonproductive feelings go. They will not serve you well moving forward.
Let me repeat what I just said, your job does not define you. I am Bruce, a nice, decent guy who is passionate about helping others, I am not Bruce the Coach. While it might seem like it right now, it’s not the end of the world.
Everyone knows the story of how Michael Jordon was initially cut from his high school basketball team. Truth is there are a million more relatable stories, just like that. You are one of them. The success you have had in your life to this point is a product of your story, and this is just the next chapter. Nobody else has your story, your vision or your ability to process information the way you do. Never forget how powerful that is. Understand your value, and do not allow the present set of circumstances to get in your head.
Right now, being stuck in your head is the singular worst place to be. It is home to the why me guy. His neighbor, Mr. Negative is constantly banging on the door and you are probably better off not letting him in. As human beings we create excessive stress, anxiety, and fear, as well as many other emotions as coping mechanisms. Here is a thought. Open your heart and listen to what it is telling you. You just might find the person you are searching for. Until you are ready to take on more positive thoughts and powerful tactics, to create a new mindset, hang out the “Nobody’s Home” sign.
Stay positive and take the time to discover your true passion. Trust Yourself. Yes, I know it is easy to say, not so easy to do. I was in the mortgage lending industry for almost 40 years before I figured out, that helping people was really my passion, and that assisting them live the American dream with a mortgage was just a conduit. Everyone is awesome at something, and that includes you. Stop. Breathe. And then figure out what you enjoy more than anything. Passion for something or someone, eliminates excuses. They just become roadblocks that we deftly navigate past. Believe it or not, you got this.
Equally work to stay healthy mentally and physically sound. Ramp up your exercise routine and find things that challenge and stimulate your mind. New opportunities will come your way and you want to be able to present the best possible version of yourself. Nothing burns off stress and negative thoughts more.
Understand the value of change and reinvention as well. If you have been holding on to the idea that we are all going to be going back someday to the way it was, you are fooling yourself. Working from home, internet conferencing calling, and many other new forms of communication, production and profitability instruments are already in place or will be forthcoming soon. It is wise to accept that and learn to adapt now, rather than later.
Surround yourself with positive people. Now is not the time to join the “Oh Poor Me Club”. Yes, everyone is facing some form of challenge today and the truth is, most do not want to hear your complaints. If you think you have it bad, stop and look around and I am sure that you will find many that have it worse. Be thankful for your blessings and remain positive. Even if others are not ready to hear it, positivity is infectious, and you have the capacity to make a difference in someone else’s life. There is no better positive reinforcement in validating your own sense of self-worth than making a positive impact on someone else.
And finally, create a game plan. No one ever got lucky laying on their couch feeling sorry for themselves. The luckiest people I know are those that make things happen. They network, they keep all doors and windows of communication open and they let others know they could use a little assistance. As a businessperson, you know the value of a business plan and the importance of having specific strategies and tactics with timelines. in order to accomplish your goals. Create one and work your plan effectively.
These are challenging times and we will come back through on the other side. Stay happy, healthy, passionate and positive. Godspeed to all
Ramblings of "The Bruce" 