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How to use “Intention” to Change your Mindset during COVID-19
This morning, I had the pleasure of tuning into Haworth’s webinar with Greg Hicks. Based on his words, the word “intention” has been circling my brain all day. Greg teaches through a cycle that helps people change their mindset. I have heard many speak on the negative impact COVID-19 has had on their family, their work, their life altogether. I have read article after article sharing how fear and anxiety is at an all-time high. The applicable steps in Greg’s message can genuinely help people work through this time. It is helping me. Here are 4 steps you can apply immediately to change your mindset and grow through this tough season.
1. “You are not an automated pilot.” You may feel like your life is falling apart, you can’t control anything, and you are stuck. First, you are in control of your life. You may not be able to control what is happening around you, but you can control your reaction, your thoughts, and your intention. Fly the plane. Take control of what you do throughout your day.
2. Create a daily agenda. Plan out your work and work your plan. This could be as specific as you’d like. Greg encouraged us to write out a list of things that we loved to do before COVID-19 hit. I challenge you to do the same. Once you have your list, get creative and find a way to add one or two to your day. You have power over your schedule. You can still incorporate your favorite things. If painting is number one on your list and you haven’t painted in 3 months, it is time to pick up the paintbrush. Use this time to get back to pursuing a life that you enjoy living.
3. Greg taught on “Recasting”. This is a personal analysis cycle that we can access when fear creeps into our mind. First, you must honestly assess what you are feeling. Sweeping fear under the rug will not benefit you long-term. When you experience your feelings genuinely, you can give them meaning. Meaning will give you mental options: you can stay or move. Moving is an opportunity. In those scary thoughts, try thinking, “What can I take away from this season? What am I learning about myself? What can I control? How can I make this time valuable?”
4. When you start responding to your positive “recasting” questions, you can move forward with your time and thoughts. Try channeling your thoughts towards how can be a better “you” during this season and once it is over. We all have a huge opportunity to grow and develop as individuals. We can learn to appreciate the things that once made us frustrated. We can be on the lookout for ways to impact others positively. Greg mentioned that “our bodies reward us when we genuinely give.” Giving our time, our attention, our resources matters in a season like this one. If you feel out of control, write down a definite 3 things you can do today to encourage someone else. This is a hard season for everyone, so I challenge you to use your talents to inspire someone you know may be struggling.
I want to write the word “Intention” on my desk, my steering wheel, and my bathroom mirror to remind me that my purpose isn’t controlled by outward circumstances, but rather my reaction. Take the driver’s seat and change your mindset using intention to benefit you and those who care for in this season.
I hope this encouraged you like I was encouraged this morning. I want to thank the Haworth family, Kurt Vander Shuur, and Greg Hicks for an entertaining and enlightening program today. I would highly recommend listening to it.
Olivia Johnson - New Business Development at TBI inc.
