Sacrifice vs. Awareness

Social distancing and other life saving mandates that are temporarily defining how we are living in this moment may seem like we are sacrificing our freedoms. We have had to give up our favorite entertainment whether it be going to dinner at your favorite restaurant, going to the movies, attending sporting events, or play dates. It seems isolating and lonely. And while this is true, I would like to offer another way of thinking about the temporary way of life. I like to think of it as developing awareness. When I think about it as awareness I am gaining something rather than losing as with a sacrifice. 

Social distancing has helped me be aware of how my actions not only impact my wellbeing but it also impacts the wellbeing of others. I see my actions as a ripple effect. If I am intentional about hand sanitizing and coughing into my arm, I am reducing the spread of the virus to me and to others I come in contact with. If I am social distancing, I am being intentional about the possibility of me passing on the virus that I might have contracted without knowing.This is important to me because I have also become aware that I cannot survive without the support of my family and the support of community workers (first responders, doctors, nurses, grocery store clerks, etc). My livelihood depends on these individuals. 

So I would rather be aware than think about what I have had to give up. I want to think of my impact on the world and the wellbeing of my neighbors, community, and the world. 

If this is a new way of thinking for you and you would like to continue to think positively about what is possible, connect with me.