If you don’t come out of this with a new skill, you never lacked time, you lacked discipline.
I saw this quote shared several times on social media during the early days of shelter in place. At the time we weren’t actually under an order to stay home. It was more of a suggestion to stay home if you could to help curb the spread of the virus. Today I saw the same post, but it was shared in a different context. When it was first shared, it inspired me to make a list of all of the projects I wanted to get done, but didn’t have time. In some ways, I agreed with this quote because we have more time on our hands in theory.
After seeing the context in which it was shared today, my perception has shifted. When it was shared this morning, the person pointed out that many going through this pandemic are under a lot of stress. Many have lost their jobs, and don’t have money saved to cover bills. On top of all of that, people are worried about contracting the virus, or they have loved ones who have contracted it and died. To make this statement/judgement is all to easy when much of your life has not changed.
How have I responded?
Given I have had to extend the shutdown of my massage and yoga portion of my business, I want to do something. When I saw the quote I was inspired to think outside of the box. I previously only really focused on the more service side of my business. I had to stop giving massages or holding private in person yoga lessons. This meant I needed to find a way to continue growing my business.
This pandemic has forced me to work on adding items to my online shop, and I am seeing sales pick up. I had to face the reality that for the most part, I relied heavily on word of mouth. A friend pointed out to me that I need an actual marketing plan. I am continuing to work on updating my shop by developing new products. However, if there I don’t have a plan for getting the word out, what is the point?
While I figure the whole marketing situation out, I am going to continue to blog about my experience. Blogging is helping to keep my focused, and be accountable. I enjoy sharing what I have planned daily, even though at this point, only a few may actually read my words. I want to encourage others, and be a positive space during these times.
Back to that quote though
I can’t say that I have been pushing the notion that everyone should be learning a new skill, reading new books, or starting a business. Even as I struggle with not being able to perform any massages, I have tried to stay productive. When I speak with others, I do encourage them to take advantage of their time. I now look back, and think that may have been pretty dismissive of their emotional well being. Thankfully someone said the needful. It has helped me to take other people’s situations into consideration. I do have control over how I choose to support others also going through this pandemic. Instead of offering a “solution”, I should truly just listen. The quote is out there, but I can reassure others and provide support where I can. The coronavirus situation is unprecedented (as far as I know). We are all trying to figure this out together while trying to keep safe.
As we continue to face this Covid-19 pandemic, do what works best for you and your family. Be supportive where you are able to be supportive. Don’t feel guilted into putting on a mask that everything is ok, when you aren’t. If you ever need someone to just listen, feel free to reach out. I am not a psychologist and don’t claim to be. I am a massage therapist and yoga instructor who wants you to know that you are not alone.
May you alls receive the positive vibes I am sending out to each of you.
Namaste
~Ony
