These are unpresidented times. The issues are too big, involve too many people and the stakes are too high. We can't see very far in front of us. It's paralyzing.
When you don't know what to do.... do this:
- Breathe deep, exhale and repeat.
- Admit to another human being: “I don’t know what to do.”
- Go outside and walk around the block.
- Find ways to remind yourself of your purpose or values. Find an image, statement, song, poetry, Scripture, or art and post where it can be seen.
- Be present where you are.
- When people asked you for a specific answer for which you don’t know the answer, pause, and say: “I’m not sure we know yet.” Or “I don’t know.”
- Unplug for a while.
- Do the next right thing, even a little thing.
- Be present for those you are with.
- Don’t rush to make people feel better. This is an uncomfortable place that creates anxiety. But it might not be yours to fix.
- Be in touch with people you trust.
- Have regular conversations with other leaders.
- Listen to what your people really need.
- Take a break.
- Breathe deep, exhale and repeat.
It's not so much that we're afraid of change or so in love with the old ways, but it's that place in between that we fear... It's like being between trapezes. It's Linus when his blanket is in the dryer. There's nothig to hold on to. - Marilyn Ferguson
Peace be with you my friends. Breathe Deeply. Connect with Another. Center Yourself. Love Neighbor. Trust Radically.
Kristin Wiersma | Consultant | email