The Great Reflection
Life as we know it has changed forever. In the last few months since the coronavirus pandemic began:
● Fear and uncertainty have gripped our lives in ways many have never seen.
● Health and safety have become everyone’s top priorities.
● We are spending more time with our immediate family members (like it or not 😊) due to the stay-at-home orders.
● Unemployment is quickly approaching 15%, which is the highest we have seen since the Great Depression.
For these reasons and more, we are slowing down and praying that our lives return to “normal” soon. Thankfully, it looks like the worst may be behind us. But, now is a great time to think about what we can do to ensure our future is brighter than what we had before. Therefore, I’m calling this coronavirus season, The Great Reflection. I heard this term 1st from Dr. John Delony and it rang so true to me.
In times of reflection we think about what is most important. We make time and space for those we love. We slow down and actually smell the roses. We are more thoughtful and grateful for what we have. Many people are participating in the Great Reflection without even realizing it. Today I just want to encourage you to take a proactive approach so that when we emerge from quarantine, we are all better than we were before.
The following are just a few areas that you can reflect on. You may come up with your own ideas to ponder.
Reflect on your career path.
Over 17 million Americans have been forced to choose a new path even if it is just temporary. Although the circumstances weren’t favorable, you may be looking for new employment. This is a great time to explore new career options and go after what you really want. Why waste another moment in a job you don’t enjoy? You may even discover a business idea or service that is needed right now. I’m already seeing creativity sprouting up. Photographers are now taking pictures of people at their front door. Zookeepers or farmers are hosting online tours. Llamas being rented out for entertainment on zoom meetings. Yes, you read that right! That would sure put a smile on my face during a zoom meeting! Now, may be the right moment to take inventory of your skills, gifts, and talents to find your inner genius idea.
Reflect on your money choices.
If you didn’t have an emergency fund before COVID-19 hit, you are probably thinking about how you can get one saved, and FAST! When the next emergency hits, you want and need to be ready. Some people are looking at their retirement accounts and wondering if they should make changes right now. If you were ok with your investing choices before, then trust they will serve you well during this season too. The market will come back to a healthy level eventually. Since businesses have closed, we are spending less money on dining out, personal care, clothing, gas, and maybe even childcare. We are also learning to live without those things. Now is the time to consider what you truly need once the nation opens back up for business. If savings is a priority, think about how much you will spend in these areas so that you can still accomplish your savings goals.
Reflect on everything you are grateful for.
During this time, we often lose focus on the positivity around us. Reflecting on areas where we are truly grateful leads us to fulfillment. When all we care about is our health and the ability to provide for our families, life comes into focus. Writing down the things you are grateful for brings perspective in this difficult situation. Along with the big things, such as having your job, the little moments in life are just as important. This may show up as you enjoy the weather on a walk, watch your children laugh while spending time together, or even getting a chance to make that recipe you have always wanted to try. All these moments are what will bring light during these difficult times.
As we continue our journey through The Great Reflection, use these ideas to allow your juices to flow. Let this reflection turn your fear into courage and your uncertainty into confidence. Have you thought of at least one area of your life that you may want to reflect on during this time?
If money is the area of your life that you have decided to take control over. Let’s chat! I’d love to help you move forward towards financial freedom and peace. Click here to set up a time.
