I recently shared a post about how many of us are feeling bone tired from the big changes that we’ve been experiencing. The responses I’ve had to that post (one of the most popular I’ve ever shared), made me think even more about what’s going on for everyone. Thank you to everyone who has commented or sent me feedback. That feedback has prompted more thoughts - I hope these might help too
We’re not all on the same wavelength
I’ve used this phrase for years to help people understand how communication works for us as individuals.
When we talk about our experiences or listen to others about theirs, we’re coming at it from different perspectives. We won’t always be on the same wavelength and it might feel like we’re not having the same conversation at all.
Even if we are going through the same ‘thing’ (like a pandemic) our experiences of it will be unique to us. If we listen hard to what’s really being said – even if we don’t have a solution to offer – it will help to see another perspective.
Boundaries – set them, respect them
If someone is telling you they are offline or on holiday and won’t pick up emails or calls, they have set a boundary.
Unless they say otherwise, it’s unlikely they want you to call or email them. And if you’re expecting a reply, don’t be disappointed if you don’t get one.
For all of us, being clear on our boundaries really matters. And, respecting the boundaries that others set is just as important. If not, we’ll just get annoyed and use up more precious energy. Which leads on to…
Think about energy management
I often talk about ‘radiators’ and ‘dementors’ – people and situations that either give or suck away energy. And energy is key when we’re thinking about looking after our wellbeing and resilience, especially when we’re working through big changes.
In the latest issue of the ‘Change for the Better’ newsletter (sign up here) I featured a review of ‘The Power of Full Engagement’.
The overriding takeaway from this read for me, is the need to focus on managing our energy, not our time. Consider energy management from the four perspectives of physical, mental, emotional and spiritual.
I’m finding that even trying to put a positive spin on negative thoughts is using up more energy than usual, so I’m consciously avoiding that too.
If you’ve got a dementor to deal with, think about how you can either get rid of, minimise or move away from it.
Life isn’t simple for many of us at the moment. It can make any decision-making and a feeling of any sort of progress a real challenge, especially when we feel exhausted. But however hard it might seem, having a plan in place can help to direct energy where it will have the best effect.
If you’d like help in setting a plan or goals – whatever they might be for - and sticking to them however tricky it gets, let me know.
Other content you might find interesting