2020 has been a year like no other. During the current turbulent times of stress, being a human is not easy. Many feel worried, sad, and confused. Some are struggling to put food on the table. Some lost their jobs. Some are alone and afraid.
Meanwhile, I show up every single day and do the best I can to help myself, my loved ones, and my community.
I know there are many things far beyond my control: earthquakes, tsunamis, the rain, the sunset, the stock market, political changes, economies that are going to collapse, this pandemic included.
But there’s one thing I can surely self-manage, and that is my inner world: my actions, my thoughts, my emotions. The way I respond to external circumstances is totally up to me.
There is much power in hope and faith. A positive mindset helps to boost our immune system with serotonin, the feel-good hormone. Feeling good keeps us healthy!
So I’ve been asking myself this question:
What’s the message life is trying to give us? What’s the blessing in disguise, the gain in pain?
Despite much fear, sorrow and death, this pandemic has offered us a complex exercise of transformational change.
Here are ten lessons I am taking with me from the general crisis that took by surprise our entire planet:
Gratitude
Because of this virus crisis, my family had to postpone our vacation – what a wake-up call! There are so many things I have been taking for granted!
Good health. The water and food supply. The internet and cable. The car. The shelter. The nice parties with my friends. The coffee shop. The gym subscription. The beauty salon. The freedom of traveling and seeing the world. And so much more! For all this, I am truly thankful.
Equality
Viruses don’t care about status, money, and fame, spreading from state officials to famous actors. In front of illnesses, we are all in the same boat.
Connection
Some people got to spend quality time with their loved ones. Calling old friends. Playing with their babies. Talking to their children, asking questions, listening to what they have to say. Cooking, baking, eating together. Playing games and watching movies.
Perspective
“Your ancestors were called to war. You are called to stay on your couch. You can do this.” That’s what my Facebook newsfeed reminded me the other day. Oh, boy! That really helped to put things into perspective.
A big thank you to the medical staff all around the world, those doctors, nurses taking care of the sick, facing sleep deprivation, while most of us are currently stuck in the comfort of our homes.
A big thank you to all the workers in the grocery stores or doing online deliveries these days. I see you, and I do appreciate what you do.
Being
Most of us are now getting the gift of time. And what a golden asset that is, as it means life and it’s never coming back!
Unable to go out, so many of us go in. Sleep, recharge, pray, meditate, journal. Reflect on what’s important and what makes us truly happy.
To many, it’s a transition from survival to living. We are invited to let go of the daily busyness of the modern society we live in, and learn new ways of being – to do less and be more; reconnect with our true human nature.
Creativity
Many people used this time to explore ways of doing things differently and new opportunities. Some made gym equipment out of water-filled bottles. Some made art. Some started online businesses.
Museums did virtual tours for free. Famous singers invited their fans to live concerts from the intimate space of their living rooms.
Healing
Due to travel bans and closed borders all around the world, there were fewer cars, subways, and planes. Less trash on the streets. Cleaner water and air. Dauphins were seen on the water channels of Dubai. Mother Earth has been healing.
Faith
Many of us returned to our faith – the antidote to fear. We prayed for peace, healing, good health. We reconnected with God. Souls rejuvenated, spirits got cleansed. Collective meditations and prayers were held all around the world.
Growth
Why am I here? What do I really want? What makes me truly happy? – such big questions have been a topic of deep soul purpose and inner work to many.
Some people lost their jobs, which is sad. However, many were stuck with jobs they hated and didn’t believe in – a new opportunity to find something meaningful, something that brings them genuine joy and fulfillment.
Service
Inclusion, collaboration, unity, compassion, community, generosity, genuine care for each other, such human values have never been so essential.
Many volunteered their money and time, shared food, medicines, essentials, baby necessities. Support those with no savings or income.
Coaches, consultants, trainers, healers, spiritual teachers, and lightworkers offered resources to help people stay healthy, calm, and empowered.
Being of service is what the world needs.
“The planet does not need more successful people. The planet desperately needs more peacemakers, healers, restorers, storytellers and lovers of all kind.” – Dalai Lama
And now, I would like to hear from you. What have you learned from this pandemic? Any insights?
Sara Fabian is a Women’s Empowerment & Career Coach and inspirational speaker, on a mission to help professional women to discover their unique strengths, gifts and talents, boost their confidence, find their calling and live a meaningful life of purpose. For weekly inspiration, subscribe to her free newsletter at www.sarafabiancoaching.com or follow her on Facebook.
