It is a very stressful time for everyone right now, as the COVID-19 virus disrupts life not just for America but for the entire world. Many people have been advised, if possible, to work from home while those less fortunate may have lost their jobs entirely due to the virus.
Like many businesses and companies, Technalink is adapting to a New Normal right now, and looking after the welfare of the people we work with, work for, and work as part of our team. We understand the stakes and know that no one wants to get sick or, worse yet, pass that infection on to someone more medically vulnerable.
That means having to make some tough choices from time to time, but one of the toughest can be taking the time to take care of ourselves. However, as a critical part of mindfulness in your life, this is an essential element.
The Airline Emergency Guidance Always Applies
Anyone that’s ever traveled by air is familiar with the safety videos and demonstrations for what to do in the event of an emergency. If a parent is accompanying a child, and the oxygen masks drop down, that parent is advised to put a mask on themselves before attending to the child.
The reason this is done is simple. Although we often have an impulse to help those that require it, certain circumstances dictate we must be in a good position ourselves to offer help that can have a legitimate, positive impact. In the case of an aircraft emergency, you can’t render aid to a child in need if you are having difficulty breathing. You must take care of yourself first, to put yourself in a better position to aid others effectively. Otherwise, it would be similar to trying to save a drowning victim if you can’t swim. Your effort would endanger the victim and your life.
Taking Care
It’s essential to see the practicality—and even necessity—in looking after your welfare. It is not an act of selfishness to ensure you are in sufficient condition to meet obligations and look after others. Making sacrifices, while noble and often admired, should not be something that happens all the time, so much as something that occurs in emergencies and times of need.
This is why stress management is so important to your life. Stress affects nearly every aspect of both personal and professional life. Too much pressure can reduce the effectiveness of sleep, the ability to concentrate on a task at hand, or even the ability to empathize with others. Stress is both a barrier and a block that can occupy the resources of your mind, body, and soul that could be directed at other activities.
Practicing meditation techniques in quiet moments, exercising mindfulness, and being aware of your inner state and that of others is key. In these uncertain times, stress may mount, and challenges will arise. It’s important to take of yourself so that you can take care of these obstacles for yourself and those around you.
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