The COVID-19 pandemic is a global health crisis that the world has not experienced for more than a century. People have lost lives, lost jobs, and closed the doors to their business. They’ve been separated from friends, family, and loved ones. They’ve been stuck at home, possibly wondering how they are going to pay their bills or wondering how to provide the necessities of life to their families. As a business owner, you probably have concerns about the future. Staying positive can be tough in normal times, much less during a crisis. At Bryant Consultants, we understand the challenges that business owners face. That’s why we came up with these tips to help you keep looking at the world like a glass that’s half full, even during the coronavirus pandemic.
Savor the little things
Even if your business is shut down, and you’re staying at home day after day, there are many small moments—and small joys—for you to appreciate. It may be something as fleeting as the smell of fresh-brewed coffee in the morning or the feel of warm water on your back and shoulders when you take a shower. These small, simple pleasures can make each day better. Stop, recognize them, and enjoy them. This allows your brain a chance to process the pleasure while elevating serotonin levels, the neurotransmitter that controls your mood and stress levels.
Treasure special moments
Lockdown means no work for many of us. It also means no school or extra-curricular schedule for your kids. That means nothing on your schedule, and a great opportunity to spend quality time with your loved ones. When you spend meaningful time with the people who love you, your body increases its production of a hormone called oxytocin, which bonds people and also has a general calming effect. Elevated oxytocin levels also cut off your production of cortisol, the stress hormone.
Seek out examples of human kindness
Several decades ago, Fred Rogers had some advice for his audience on his iconic children’s TV show on what to do during a crisis–“look for the helpers.” Crises such as the COVID-19 pandemic often bring out the best in people. Seek out these stories, and general examples of people doing good in the world. They’ll make you feel better about your own situation, even if you find yourself going through tough times of your own.
The benefits of a positive outlook during a crisis
- Increased resilience – Experiencing positive emotions more frequently, but especially after a stressful event, speeds your “cardiovascular recovery” time. Your heart rate lowers, and your blood pressure will stabilize when you remain positive.
- Increased immunity – People who have more positive emotions more often are better equipped to fight off viruses such as the flu and rhinovirus. Meanwhile, this study found that individuals who were negative had 2.9 times the susceptibility to contracting some sort of respiratory illness.
- Influences thinking processes – Positive emotions improve our ability to problem solve, have sound judgment, make good decisions, and be creative. Staying positive helps you understand that small problems are exactly that, and how to overcome them. Being flexible in a crisis is crucial, whether that means finding a way to work from home or helping your kids with their remote learning.
We recognize the challenges related to the coronavirus pandemic, especially for entrepreneurs just like you. We’re in this together, and Bryant Consultants can help. We continue to provide consultation, training, and coaching and will continue to post relevant updates regarding the coronavirus pandemic. Call (877) 768-4799 to speak directly with our small business coach. Are you on social media? We are too! Please connect with us on Facebook and Instagram.
