How To Bounce Back From The “Worst Of Times”

By Ettie Rutherford
Contributing Columnist

I always go back to Jamaica……so, as I wind my way through the challenges that the coronavirus presents, I think of my high school days and the part that English literature played in my education.

So, here I am, reflecting on Charles Dickens, who, in 1859, published A Tale of Two Cities, one of literature’s most unforgettable books, which he introduced with these immortal words: “It was the best of times; it was the worst of times.”

Today, 152 years later, those words reflect our lived-experiences during this epidemic. For many people, their business can be blooming, because of the rise in sales for specific services and products, which are in demand. But, for so many others, this is the worst of times, because of health restraints, financial difficulties, their children’s education, the rise in mental challenges, unemployment, as well as difficulties, regarding the dictates of the government’s “lock-down”.

So, how do we conquer all of these challenges that make it today’s “worst of times”? Since moving forward, in a positive manner, is the order of the day, we need to:
1. Accept the present situation and stop looking back.
2. Practice self-care, in order to be able to assist others.
3. Make contingency plans for moving forward.
4. Develop actions to increase motivation and maintain a positive attitude.
5. Maintain a sense of humor. Stop being so serious.
6. Leverage the strengths and skills, which have always been present.
7. Break projects into smaller tasks.
8. Note the lessons, which are being learnt through this time of upheaval.
9. Focus only on situations that can be controlled.

Most importantly, be thankful for today’s blessings…for health, shelter, food, medical care, clean drinking water, and family. There are millions of people, who wish they were as blessed.

In Sisterhood!

Award-winning Ettie Rutherford, B.Ed, Dip.Ed, M.Ed, is an educator, life coach, consultant and author of “Why Perch Like A Chick When You Can Soar Like An Eagle?”. An accomplished public speaker, Ettie is the Founder and CEO of Women Are Worthy, which provides step-by-step strategies for women to achieve their goals, with a minimum amount of stress. She can be reached at ettie@womenrworthy.com