Last time, I talked about embracing the fear we are experiencing. At the current moment, there is a lot of fear that we are experiencing. How are you experiencing fear now? In the past? Do you embrace it? Do you run at it head on yelling, “I got this. You can’t beat me!” Do you let it overtake your life and roadblock you? Do you let it eat at your soul? Right now, a lot of us are technically not embracing the fear, we are letting it eat at us. In response to that fear, we have become not very nice individuals.
Over the last few weeks, I’ve noticed an uptick in rudeness, lack of compassion, disrespect, poor communication, and other debilitating and distrustful behavior from so many. The observations are seen in people I know are good at heart. I do not believe there was any intention of malice. Even without intention or malice, those actions sure feel that way to those who are being treated poorly and disrespected. I have had to check my own behavior because just like those I observe, I am tired, scared, frustrated, and so much more. Fear can eat at our soul. When that happens, we unknowingly (most times) start betraying the trust of those around us. It’s unintentional, but it still happens.
What can we do to embrace fear without letting it eat at our soul? What can we do to avoid that betrayal of trust?
Be kind. When was the last time you gave someone a compliment? Picked up the phone and said, “Hi, how are you today?” Told someone you were thinking about them or love them? Do you smile at people you walk by? Do you look your cashiers in the eye at the store? Do you remember that others are on a journey just like you and maybe that journey for them is pretty hard right now? Small acts of kindness can lessen fear in us and those around us.
Pay attention to written communication. With the pressures and added work or added stress of finding work, it is incredibly easy to fire off e-mails, texts, IM’s and more without little thought. Pay attention, and put some care and kindness into your communications. Written communication misses all the non-verbal cues and thus creates a major opportunity for misunderstanding. I promise, it only takes a few minutes to review and reflect. Your message could make someone’s day in the best way.
Use your voice to lift others. Our voices can be beacons of light or daggers that rip at the heart. Use words of kindness and compassion (and yes, you can do this even if you have to hold someone accountable and to expectations). Be aware of the tone of your voice when speaking to others. We have the ability to lift others in the simplest ways when we pay attention to the smallest details.
Increase your use of these two words, “Thank you.” These are the least used words in the English language these days. Our fear can drive us in the worst ways, and we forget the little things. Saying “thank you” shows appreciation. Saying “thank you” shows kindness and compassion. Saying “thank you” acknowledges the value of those around you. We do not gain success in this world on our own. In the smallest ways, we have others lifting us. Show that you appreciate that boost with two tiny words…THANK YOU!
Do know, I want you to continue to honor your fear and anger and sadness as you maneuver these incredible times. I worry about people who brush those emotions off. Your emotions are real. They are a part of you. And, they have purpose in your life. Honor them. And then, EMBRACE that fear, anger, and sadness and let them help drive your success. We’ll talk more about how to do that over the next few weeks.
What can you do today to embrace your fear without letting it eat your soul? I would love to hear from you.
Our organizations are not just places of productivity and innovation, they are in some ways our second home. If you are feeling pressured, disrespected, poorly treated, and/or bullied, reach out for help. If you can’t find help within your organization, please call me. It is so important in times of uncertainty and fear that we support each other…that we help each other rise.