It is hard. We are being stretched and feel the need for a proper boost to continue showing up and to keep going for ourselves, our teams, our family, and our loved ones.
I get you. We are in the midst of the third wave of COVID-19 in South Africa. We are back at Level Four Lockdown.
The pandemic is likely having an impact on our energy levels, overall wellness, organisational, and personal performance. Even if this wave has passed in your location, fatigue may remain present.
As a leader, you want to show up and keep going to lead your people through these challenging times.
Adaptation Process
Adaptation to a “new normal” is not a once-off nor linear process.
Adaptation to shock or change is more of a roller-coaster with its ups and downs, deep dives, and longer stretches. As we ride this roller-coaster it is becoming clearer that we are in this for the long-haul. To keep going and succeed in the “new normal” requires robust empathy, innovation, and navigation skills.
What Takes Us Backwards?
Adaptation to shock and change is stressful. And long-term stress feeds negative thought patterns and behaviours. Can you recognise any of the below in yourself or in your team?
Avoider
The Avoider tends to downplay real problems. Procrastinates with unpleasant tasks. Focuses on comforting routines and habits instead of tackling challenges. And as a consequence feels resentment if not anxiety.
“Maybe if I let it go it will take care of itself.”
Controller
The Controller wants to do the impossible by beating the odds and tries to control everything. Thinks that they are doing others a favour. Pushes others beyond their comfort zone. And if others do not follow or things do not go as wanted, feels anxious, hurt and rejected.
“I’m either in control or out of control.”
Hyper-Achiever
The Hyper-Achiever is highly focused on external success, which leads to unsustainable workaholic tendencies and loss of touch with deeper emotional and relationship needs. Dependent on constant performance for self-respect and self-validation.
“I am worthy as long as I am successful and others think well of me.”
The above are just three out of nine self-sabotaging behaviour patterns (Shirzad Chamine, Positive Intelligence 2012) that are not helpful at work or at home.
What You Can Do Instead
Instead of avoiding, controlling, or hyper-achieving, learn to recognise these negative patterns. This is a prerequisite for changing the thoughts that are holding you back. Your ability to focus and succeed are fuelled by positive thoughts and emotions.
Lead with positive intelligence!
Subscribe to my complimentary online Mental Fitness workshop to learn more about the role that positive intelligence can play in your work and life to make it in these challenging times.
Pauliina Mapatha has twenty years of experience in both the government and non-profit sectors and is a certified life coach. She established her own consultancy company in 2006 and has found her passion for supporting individuals and organisations with change, transformation and wellness.
To contact coach Pauliina click here.
