Lesson No 48: Crisis, Chaos & Isolation
I didn’t purpose to be in the space that I find myself in. God plucked me from the path that I had set out for myself & set me on an alternative journey. At the start it all appeared somewhat ‘accidental’ but I know now that it was no accident, rather His design, His purpose for my life…
So now that I am here, these are my confessions…the lessons I am learning about being a woman in business, building an empire, one brick at a time…
As feelings escalate, it’s time for more Emotional Intelligence.
Six Seconds
What a week!
The announcement of the 1st case of COVID-19 virus here in Kenya brought what seemed to be a world away right to our doorstep. Up until a few weeks ago, coronavirus was something that was happening to the rest of the world, and if you believed the hype, Africans were immune – something about our DNA structure. Even when cases were announced on the continent, it still wasn’t our problem because the individuals who were tested positive were not Africans – we were ok.
Fast forward a few weeks & you can feel the tension in the air. Across Africa countries have introduced strict measures aimed at ‘flattening the curve’ – slowing down the rate of infection so that fewer people need to seek treatment at any given time, ensuring a manageable level for medical providers.
While the COVID-19 pandemic threat is real, allowing our emotions to run riot will make the situation even worse.
Here are three things that we can do that will help us to navigate our emotions & manage our reactions in this difficult time;
- Focus On Your Span Of Control
While there is so much that is beyond our control, there is a part that we can play that will enable us to eliminate unnecessary risk. Take back control & focus on the areas that you can control. You are responsible for your behaviour, and that of your family. Focus on that & do your part to ensure that the virus doesn’t spread unchecked. Social distancing & quarantine are NOT dirty words! Maintain good hygiene – wash your hands thoroughly & regularly and use sanitiser.
- Unplug & Connect
However difficult it may be, use this time to unplug & connect.
Email, text, or better still, call that individual you have been meaning to call just so that you can hear their voice. Spend quality time with your children.
Whilst you may be tempted to keep a strict ‘home-schooling’ schedule, now would be a good time to play games, watch movies, go for a walk in your neighbourhood and find ways to truly connect.
Read that book that has been on your booklist
- Get News Form Reliable Sources
Everyone has something to say. Unfortunately – a large amount of what is shared on social media is not factual. If you are not careful, your mind will be bombarded with an overload of inaccurate information that will will feed your stress and fear.
If you only accept information from reliable sources, you can stop the spread of this damaging misinformation and do your part to tamp down the panic.
We will need to dig deep to successfully navigate this season of crisis, chaos & isolation. We will need Emotional Intelligence – being more aware, more intentional & more purposeful.
With Love,
The Queen Of Hearts
Mucha Mlingo
| Six Seconds EQ Practitioner | Master Trainer & Facilitator |
| Award Winning International Keynote Speaker |