Although 2020 was a very challenging year in a number of ways, it brought out the best in many people. By supporting each other, we were able to feel connected to other human beings and to something greater than ourselves. This doesn’t need to stop. It can continue even after social/physical distancing is a distant memory and life returns to whatever our new normal will be.
We can continue supporting each other when we choose to
• Perform random acts of kindness
• Watch out for our neighbors, friends, family, and even strangers
• Check-in more frequently with friends, not just with text messages but with actual phone calls and visits
• Do what needs to be done even if we are not essential workers
• Be more thankful for those who provide services for us
• Acknowledge the importance of essential workers and those who do jobs that keep our society going
• Support individuals and enterprises that need our business to survive
• Take an active part in community initiatives
• Learn to adapt and be creative
• Think of the long-term impact of our actions and act accordingly
I have touched on this theme of supporting each other before.
• I provided suggestions for where to begin supporting family members, friends, and colleagues going through life transitions/life-altering situations in “Support during life’s transitions.”
• The steps I outlined for connecting with others while pursuing your dreams also work when supporting others. You can read more in “Make a connection with your partner during transitions.”
• I wrote about the importance of support systems and how to start building a strong support system for yourself in “How to nurture a support system.” Supporting each other is easier when you yourself feel supported.
Supporting each other shows the best of humankind in a crisis. What can you add to this list, both for the current season and beyond?