The nation-wide Covid-19 lockdown has left many entrepreneurs in the new and unique situation of being confined to our homes. Not everyone is able to go to the office, warehouse or site each day and in-person business dealings have become a thing of the past.
For many, our homes have now become our business headquarters. Whether you are actively trading or not, this space comes with a range of new challenges. Your loved ones are now, more than ever before, present in your space and placing demands on your time. With kids being home from school, your spouse, extended family and other loved ones sharing your home, trying to find the time and energy to run your business can feel impossible and overwhelming.
Now is the perfect time to develop your capacity to be resilient. The ability to handle challenges and bounce back from setbacks or failures will serve you well now, but also put you in a better position to deal with challenges in future. This will allow you to spot and seize opportunities better, even if times are tough.
1. Come to terms with yourself
You may be feeling angry or scared, because you can’t trade yet, frustrated at restrictive regulations or depressed due to lost income. Master these emotions by using the RAIN technique:
- Recognise what is going on. Step back, observe and if you choose, put a name to your feelings or thoughts
- Allow the experience to be there, just as it is. Acknowledge and accept it, even if it is unpleasant
- Investigate it with kindness. Practice self-compassion instead of self-criticism
- Non-identification with the experience. Allow yourself to have the experience, but not BE it
Using this technique will, over time, allow you to master aggression, unhealthy competition and stress.
Download a summary of the RAIN technique here.
2. Come to terms with your situation
Denial and avoidance will not serve you now. Nor will isolating yourself from loved ones. Understand the reality of your situation and accept it. Making peace with your current reality will free you from unnecessary frustration and allow you to seek realistic solutions.
3. Come to terms with those around you
Understand who the people are that are with you during lockdown. As yourself, what are their strengths, shortcomings, anxieties and fears? And how can you best support them keeping that in mind. Uplift them in order to survive together.
4. Take care and be kind
You can’t give from an empty vessel. Coping with Covid-19 lockdown is all about taking care of yourself. Eat well, avoid negative fake news, get enough sleep, learn a new skill, keep physically active. Listen to your body and mind and feed them with the things you need to feel happy and well. If your reserves are full, you’ll be better able to support and care for your loved ones and your business.
You are not alone in this and by incorporating your loved ones into your life their strength and support will help you rise to the challenge.
Sources:
Toyko Sxwhale, How to cope with Covid-19 Lockdown the Mandela Way, 3 April 2020. https://youtu.be/gJaEt1ev6qY
Mindful Healthy Mind, Healthy Life, 21 April 2020, https://www.mindful.org