Mindset during the coronavirus

​     Our mindset is so important, especially during these unsettling times.  We hear so frequently about the differences between fixed mindset and growth mindset.  They have been “hot topics” recently.  In trying or fearful situations, it is very easy to get caught up in a fixed mindset.      

      It is very easy for us to be “fixed” right now as most of us are stuck at home.  We can’t go to work. We have to work from home, or we have been laid off.  We fear we might run out of food.  We are now home schooling our children.  We are stuck in the house all day with our children.  We can’t go to the gym.  We can’t go to the stores.  We can’t visit our family or friends.  We are losing our income.  Our health, and the health of our family, is in jeopardy.         

            These are all VERY valid points. They are very valid concerns.  And no one can, or would, question you for feeling fearful or scared or upset.  The recommendation at times like these is to try to find the “silver lining” or the lesson that can be learned.  So what good could possibly come from this horrific and terrifying situation?  

Let’s try to see the positive in each of our fears:

•  When I think, “I am stuck at home” or “I am stuck in the house all day with my kids.”

           
Instead, let’s think “I am grateful to be able to be safe at home with my family.” 

• When I think “I can’t go to work, or I have to work from home.” :

             
Instead let’s think: “I am grateful that I can take this time to keep myself and my family healthy and safe.  I can take this time to read, pray, exercise, and finish projects that I have put on hold.”
 

•  When we think that about our health being in jeopardy:

           
Instead let’s think “I have been taught many precautions that I can take to keep myself and my family safe.  I can stay home, wash my hands, and sanitize things that we have touched.  Following these guidelines will reduce our risk of getting sick.”
 

• When we think we may run out of food or supplies:

           
Instead let’s think “I have all that I need at this moment, and the life essential businesses are not closed.  I will use what I have wisely and know that I am taken care of.”
 

• When we think about having to homeschool our children:

             
Instead let’s think “Our teachers are giving us all of the resources we need.  We will get through what we can.  My main focus will be helping my children feel safe and protected.  The rest will get done in due time.”
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             Although we know and understand that we are living in very difficult and scary times, we can try to help each other to feel a little bit calmer and at peace if we try to see things as a lesson and be grateful for what we do have.  
              
             I once heard a saying that “there are people out there that are praying for our worst days.”  What does that mean?  It means that as bad as our life may seem right now, there is always someone out there that has even harder struggles than we do.  So, let’s try to be grateful for the roof over our head, the clothes on our back, the food on our table, and the loved ones we hold dear.  


We are sending so many positive vibes to all of you, and we pray for your safety and health during this time.