2020 was a year unlike any other. Part of me is glad it is over and part of me isn’t.
There were highs and lows just like any other year however a part of me found them difficult to navigate. For all of us there was no point of reference, no hook that our brain could hang on to. For many, 2020 saw us truly experiencing uncertainty.
In the past, when things were uncertain, I would look to a book for information or googled it or spoken to someone who had experienced it previously, so I could understand how to behave or react.
There were no books on managing yourself during a 21st century pandemic.
There was no aged family member able to say, “In my day we…” and dishing out advice.
Google was filled with mis-information and contradictions.
I have seen many people thanking 2020 for the lessons it has taught us and a part of me certainly does thank 2020 for its lessons. 2020 was the worst and the best year of my life. This sounds a little dramatic, especially as I can’t explain in full detail what the highs and lows looked like so you’ll just have to take my word on it.
When things are uncertain our ego/primitive brain tends to have a bit of a sh*t fit (that’s a technical term). The ego/primitive brain may well create control dramas – events that it can control and allow things to stay the same even though it knows the results will be uncomfortable. It will create a dramatic story to ensure we behave in a way that it understands and it finds familiar. During these times we are based in our head, our mindset is closed and fixed. There is no room for creativity or growth.
However, we need creativity to enable us to thrive during uncertainty. We may find ourselves beating ourselves up because we can’t think of a way out of the situation however the way out/solution will not be found easily while we stay in our heads.
When things are uncertain, when you feel/see a control drama on the horizon, take a moment to:
- Write down all the things that are certain, all the things that are in your control. This soothes the ego/primitive brain.
- Write a list of all the things you are grateful for (at least 10 things). This allows you to connect back to your heart. It also releases oxytocin into your system which allows your blood pressure to come down and for you to move from the stress response and into the relaxation response. During times of uncertainty/stress the brain shuts down parts that it believes aren’t important like the creative part of your brain.
Remember that what ever comes in 2021, whether that be uncertainty, challenges, highs or lows; you have the power within to decide how you show up. You choose how you behave and react as you navigate these uncharted seas.
If this has sparked your curiosity and you would like help as you navigate 2021, do get in touch.
Best wishes
Philippa x