It is important to remember that the latest studies from Gallup have indicated that the most important things for us all to maintain at this time are TRUST; COMPASSION; STABILITY; HOPE. This supports the learnings of our workshops. To support you in developing these in your life, here are a few thoughts
TRUST
Nobel laureate, Vernon Smith, did extensive studies to explore how we assess trustworthiness and who we choose to trust people. The evidence shows that the more we trust people, the more likely they are to act in ways that warrants that trust. Furthermore, the more we are trusted and more we trust others.
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Where are you demonstrating TRUST in your daily life?
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Where are not showing TRUST?
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How can you develop greater TRUST in others?
COMPASSION
We are all going through a range of challenges, from living situations to uncertainty at work. In this time, the brain naturally switches in to ‘survival mode.’ Some research has indicated that this can inhibit are inclination to have compassion for others and magnify our self-focus. We need to work harder to have empathy. Doing so not only supports those around us, it also enhances our wellbeing through a process called neural synchronicity.
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Are you showing COMPASSION to your colleagues?
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If these people were family members, would you showing more COMPASSION?
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How can you enhance the COMPASSION you also show to your family, friends and yourself?
STABILTY
When there is change and uncertainty around us, the amygdala (emotional centre) becomes more alert. This is part of our natural, and helpful, stress response. However, if we want to overcome this to reduce stress, maintaining focus and performance, we need to regulate this. Having stability in the form or routines and rituals helps us to do this, regardless of whether we are ‘working’.
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Where is there STABILITY in your daily life and relationships?
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What have you learnt about what is and isn’t STABLE and what is important in your routine?
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Is there anything you can do to enhance the sense of STABILTY in your life?
HOPE
We often confuse HOPE and optimism. The core difference, as elegantly clarified by Professor Charles Snyder is that HOPE acknowledges our own ‘agency’ and includes a commitment to a ‘pathway to reach our goals’. If you want to cultivate hope in yourself and others, goal setting, noticing strengths, a learning focus and celebrating success are essential.
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How can you support your colleagues and team to cultivate HOPE through goals?
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Can you acknowledge Strengths more regularly to activate HOPE in yourself and others?
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What else can you do to promote HOPE in your home and work life?