We are living in a world filled with chaos and uncertainty. Uncertain times will magnify people’s problems. Tiny cracks in a person’s physical health, mental health, relationships, business or financial life become large crevasses due to the pressure. However, the more uncertain the world, the more people need your help to solve problems. You have a larger opportunity to help people than ever before – to give the gift of certainty in an uncertain world.
Certainty is one of the best things you can give right now
Even though life appears to be “back to normal” post-pandemic, there’s a level of uneasiness we are likely all experiencing. Chances are we haven’t fully realized the mental and emotional damage we accrued since the pandemic. However, you can help! Remember, you are the most powerful generation to have ever existed. Consider the three T’s: time, talent and treasure. You have time. You have talent – skills, God-given talents and a plethora of life experiences. And you have treasure. Steward your resources well during these times.
Set the tone in your interactions with others
As you work to bring certainty to others, be aware of the language you are using. To give certainty, you must first have certainty. Get rid of the negative noise you allow into your headspace. Turn off the news. Limit the amount of time you spend online or on social media. Run any news headline through this filter: #1) Is the headline real? #2) Will this affect me? #3) Can I control it? Oftentimes, we give way too much mental real estate to headlines designed for an emotional response or to things we cannot control. If your certainty in life is wavering, it will have a direct effect on your ability to bring certainty to others.
Encourage others to play offense
During uncertain times, going into self-preservation mode is a natural response. People tend to stop forging ahead. They play way too much defense. Instead, even in chaotic times, people should be playing offense; being proactive on opportunities to live, serve and solve problems. The mentality should be not to just “hunker down” and survive, but thrive. A study released by the Kaufman Foundation in 2009 found that over 50% of Fortune 500 companies started either in a bear market or full-blown recession. These entrepreneurs looked at uncertain times as an opportunity. Encourage people to play to win; don’t play not-to-lose.
Show empathy
Everyone has a story right now – likely one of trials and struggles. As you seek to bring certainty, listen to their stories and empathize. One of the best ways to bring certainty to others is to let them know someone is there to listen and understand. Share burdens without passing judgement. Speak words of encouragement sprinkled with grace. Great leaders see the potential in people before they see it for themselves. Use your three T’s to coach people through these times.
Retirees: you have an amazing opportunity to give one of the best and most-needed gifts to others right now.
Certainty.
Jerrid Sebesta
Co-Founder of Retire Repurposed
