Choose wisely
I have posted this model previously, but in the wake of negativity following the announcement of level 3 restrictions here in Auckland, I am sharing it again to remind us all that, yes, the virus is the contagion, but so is fear. So are hope, kindness and calm. We need to choose wisely.
Who do you want to be during this time as we enter into another period of uncertainty? Will you collapse into fear and self-concern or expand into the growth and the learning zones?
Recognising that we have the choice is the first step. Reconnecting with our agency, our values and our leadership attributes and being deliberate about our thoughts, actions, and behaviour are next, so that, finally, we can hold space for others and share our gifts and talents with them in a world that needs them so badly right now.
The fear zone is a contracted, highly reactive space. It is a dark, claustrophobic hole full of insecurity and loneliness; doubt and anxiety; negativity and blame. It makes us act in self-protective and self-serving ways. In this place, we are merely surviving.
The learning zone is where the rubber hits the road. Our self-awareness grows as we become more mindful of what we consume and what we spread around. We think and act more intentionally and pause before we react. It’s a place where our awareness and resilience grow.
The growth zone is a place of expansion. There is more clarity, more wellbeing and trust. We are more present and appreciative; we realise that we can find safety even in an inherently un-safe world, because of our sense of purpose and belonging. We are called to connect with our talents and use them to serve something greater than ourselves. This is a place of thriving.