Introduction
The global Covid19 pandemic is affecting 203 countries and territories around the world at the time I write this journal entry. A situation that unites so many of us, humans, on planet earth is almost impossible to switch off from. It’s been a rollercoaster of emotions over the last few weeks and I’ve tried my best to find my feet. I’m trying to understand this new landscape, so I can create new objectives and goals to help myself get through it… but I’m still searching and feel lost!
Another difficulty I’m facing regarding home isolation is that I’m naturally extroverted, very social and get a lot of energy from spending time with people. So, I’ve had to get my social fix from the wonders of modern technology. It’s so mind-blowing to fully immerse yourself in this digital world at this point of time, but I find it’s far too easy to overdo it.
Anyway, I thought I’d share some of the things that helped me find some comfort, in the hope that they may provide you with the same.
Relax! Nothing Is Under Control – The Power of Acceptance
I was listening to Dr Gabor Mate on Russel Brand’s podcast whilst cleaning my flat the other day. I’ve been interested in Gabor Maté’s work which tackles childhood development and trauma and the impacts they have on physical and mental health. Maté and Brand discuss the Covid19 pandemic and discuss how each individual handles the situation, in a way, is representative of their worldview. Makes sense, I guess!
Due to Maté’s personality and occupation, it is somewhat unsurprising that he warned of the potential after effect this trauma could have on our individual and group psyche. That is a whole can of worms there, but this point did get me reflecting on the people I see daily and the variety of opinions, emotions and outlooks that they have.
Common Purpose looks after quite a few clients nowadays from all walks of life and they all have different stances on business and family life following the pandemic. If there was one thing I could say to them it would be Gabor Maté quoting a Buddhist monk during a story he tells on the podcast who says “Relax! Nothing is under control”.
For me, this highlights a state of mind that is arguably very powerful. A state of mind which revolves around acceptance. Now, this can easily be misconstrued in a nihilistic way. If we accept nothing is under our control, what’s the point in trying at all? It’s a powerful argument. But for me, this isn’t the true meaning of acceptance.
True acceptance is not taking an event like this personally and blaming the universe for our misfortune (no matter how much evidence there is for that!). Acceptance is playing with the cards we have been dealt with. Bearing responsibility for the way we conduct ourselves and having faith that this can permeate into the wider community.