4 ways I've used this challenging year to strengthen my resilience, in work and in life
- The challenges of this year have helped me strengthen my resilience.
- By scheduling self-care and putting energy toward the things I can control, I've been able to stay focused on my professional and personal goals.
- Building and maintaining work relationships goes a long way, too.
I don't think many of us have felt like we are thriving during this pandemic. But the truth is, we are resilient. We are finding new ways to thrive, just as we are finding new ways to live and work.
Being professionally resilient can help minimize the effects a tough work environment has on one's well-being. And like any skill, it is something anyone can develop with some effort and continued dedication.
I don't have all the answers on how to thrive. But here are four ways that I've been trying to strengthen my resiliency both in the workplace and in life.
1. Build and maintain supportive connections
Strong relationships in the workplace are key in building professional resilience. This has been difficult during the pandemic as I can no longer walk over to a teammate when I have a problem, or need to vent or share ideas.
While my husband is a smart guy, he simply doesn't "get it" in the same way that my work family does! But it's important to make the effort and be deliberate about reaching out and connecting beyond the standard meetings so you can continue to lean into your work family for support.
2. Set goals and try to stay focused
In the financial services industry, this is something we continually reiterate: Set goals that are driven by what makes you happy.
Do something - even a small thing - that helps you take a step toward your professional goals because that can help improve your well-being. When you can find moments of joy in your work, you can work to build tolerance for the parts you don't like.
3. Schedule self-care
Find ways to add self-care into your schedule, whether that is going for a walk or getting that extra hour of sleep. Like many, I have struggled as the boundaries become even thinner when home is my office (and for some, your children's classroom!).
I have taken different approaches to practicing self-care. I aim to exercise first thing in the morning and once again midday. I have set a time when work stops in the evening, and at that time, I fold up my makeshift desk. Find what works for you, even if you just select one afternoon to shut down early.
4. Keep things in perspective
Unfortunately, we have to accept that change is unavoidable. In a matter of days last spring, the entire country changed. Not only were millions of people transitioning to work from home, but there were also millions that found themselves unemployed. This is a trying time and an extreme example of circumstances that are out of our control.
While we cannot stop highly stressful events from happening, I try to focus my energy on things I can control: my well-being and practicing gratitude.
Although there is still uncertainty, I no longer take for granted the ability to stop by my parents' house to say hi, to hug a friend, to watch live sports or even get a haircut. The impact on our everyday lives has been tremendous. My hope is that when the pandemic has ended, I'll have redefined what it means to thrive, and I'll continue to evolve from there.
Kelly Lannan is vice president of Young Investors at Fidelity Investments and a member of BI's Money Council.
Investing involves risk, including risk of loss.
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