The world is continuing to change at pace. At the moment, we are living in times that are fluid, constantly changing and with restrictions and measures we have never previously experienced. The conversations I’ve been having either one-on-one or via ZOOM webinars (which are all the rage!) show that the range of emotions and feelings out there are also fluid, conflicting and torrid.

Yesterday, a webinar group I was a part of were asked to put their current emotions into the ‘chat’ and the below is what came up from a sample of around 60.

What does it tell us? It tells us that times are tough, times are challenging and many people are struggling. Some are faring well, others not so well.

My important message to you today is PLEASE give yourself permission to feel, ALLOW yourself to experience the emotions and feelings that you’re going through right now…

• ALLOW yourself time – it you’re busy and focused that great, but if you want to take time out that’s great too.
• ALLOW yourself to re-set, rejuvenate and relax as we head towards the Easter break.
• ALLOW yourself to feel and lean into your feelings, don’t hide or suppress your emotions and if you have someone to share them with, all the better (a problem share is a problem halved).
• ALLOW yourself time to self-reflect.
• ALLOW yourself to reach out if you need help or support. There is no shame in looking for advice or a shoulder to cry on.
• ALLOW yourself to grieve. Many are struggling to adapt quickly to all the changes or worrying about jobs lost and COVID-19 effects on themselves and their families. It’s OK to feel this way.
• ALLOW yourself to be informed, not consumed. We are currently being bombarded by news and social media, I often see the comment ‘what now!?’ and I get that. It’s OK to take time out from the overwhelm and noise, and your mind will thank you for it.
• ALLOW yourself the opportunity to switch off. Email and social media platforms are filled with deals, offers and pressure. Now is the time to focus on you and your needs; find your tribe – there is a wealth of quality experts offering free or low-cost support and advice to help people through, and we’re happy to recommend people we trust in a number of areas if you need support or advice.
• Most importantly, ALLOW yourself to be YOU! It’s easy to worry and be stressed in this crazy world we’re experiencing right not, but know that this time will pass and we will all SHINE brightly again, even if we’re not all feeling it right now.

As we head into the Easter weekend, enjoy time out with your precious family and communicate via phone/internet with those whom do not share your household. Most importantly, take time out to connect with YOU. And remember that we’re here if you need someone to talk to. Now more than ever it’s time to #SHINETOGETHER.