Resiliency for Trying Times
In my leadership workshops, I show a cartoon of a speaker asking a crowd how many want change -- everyone raises their hand. But when asked who wants to change, all gaze down at the floor. It is human nature to avoid change, but necessary to become a better person. These days, I am getting a good dose of my own medicine!
An early life choice for me was taking up mountaineering with adventures in Europe, Africa, and North America. But, starting around age 50, favorite rock climbs were increasingly a struggle. This past year, I had knee replacements and, after mountains of physical therapy, I am back able to climb some little ones.
I also experienced unexpected anxiety, a side effect of post-surgery medication. So, I started both counseling and daily meditation which have opened me up to new ways of thinking. Sometimes life changes create new opportunities!
Changes in our country have me wondering if this nation can survive if we don’t find better ways to communicate. As a NH state legislator, I gave a 1998 speech lamenting declining civility, but the situation is much worse today. So, I volunteer for Braver Angels, a national non-profit embracing respect for fellow citizens and teaching ways to better listen and understand those with whom we disagree. Hopefully, I can make a difference.
My therapist Kristen says I am taking a new trail, forging a new identity. Take care of each moment, she says, and it will lead into the next one.
How are you managing the inevitable changes in your life or business? Do you feel you are pushing against the current or surfing the wave? Would a different way of thinking help you to more effectively adapt to change? Perhaps some outside help would help you see where there might be fresh perspectives or new opportunities.
You can read my full article “Just Another Mountain to Climb” in Resilient NH https://www.nhbr.com/resilientmagazine/ on page 8.
We each have an extraordinary opportunity to make a difference in people’s lives, including our own. Don’t underestimate your impact!