Today we reflect on the past to get creative about intentionally building connections and creating “normalcy” when it’s not so easy these days . . . Ideas we came up with to mind-hack “Normalcy’: -Just show up! You are enough - no pressure or expectation . . . take it in and enjoy -What replicates your former life (personal or professional) physically? Likely it has something to do with movement. So, how about: -1 minute walks between each “zoom session” - or make it 10 and have a 3 minute cell phone “check in” with someone you like or miss while you walk between sessions. Each minute throughout the day can add up and make you feel a bit more “normal”. -Jump! On a ball or mini trampoline or just on the floor -Concerts - we miss them!!!!! How about sharing a concert in your home or with others virtually via YouTube, Music Apps, Live-Streams . . . many bands miss them as much as we do and are creating new ways to connect with their fans. Have you tried? -“New” places - go mobile! Who says you are tied to your “workstation”. Have you used your laptop, ipad, phone to move around wherever you like within your home or outside your home (or at the mall/museum/gym), etc.? -Some of us struggle with the winter grey anyway - this one is a doozy of a winter! Have you invested in a sun lamp? A sun alarm? A virtual screen on your computer? -Games - we love games! Have you played virtual games on-screen with other families or extended families or households? If not games, how about wine-tasting? Or other?-Kids chores - they may be cranky anyway. So how about new ways for them to pitch in or take ownership of something important like meal-time to show them you trust them with something important. You may have a few moments of learning and a few laughs along the way : ) -PERSPECTIVE: No matter how you feel about right now as a person, mother, partner, friend, etc. . . think back. What if this same situation had happened when you were a young child. Would your mother or those who raised you be better in the same circumstance? We dare say, not likely. Yet if so, what would it have been like? What can you try to replicate “better”, whatever that means to you? And if indeed now - Yey You!!!! Bask in the realization that you are doing great! -Pick out some song lyrics that speak to you - Coldplay is Gwen’s go-to. From their song “Everyday Life” a partial line says something like, “We are the future of history”. Remember, the history books aren’t pretty - yet in great times we learn from history and acknowledge that we are building history for future generations. What will the history books be like with your story included? Getting better step by step? Please share your ideas and stay warm, safe and well!