We are living in very interesting times, with the rise of COVID-19 and the economic crisis we are all living through — something none of us have ever been through.
How do you thrive during these times? How do you use this as your “special moment”?
Martin Luther King Jr. once observed that
“Stars shine brightest on the darkest nights.”
There are at least two reasons why this is true.
First, because it is a dark night. The dark night creates an opportunity for stars to really stand out.
The second lesson we can learn is that the stars shine brighter. In other words, the stars “step up” their game. They shine even brighter.
We are living in a “dark night” for so many people. The uncertainty has created fear. Millions of people’s health has been infected by COVID-19. Entire populations have shut down due to “social distancing,” which has created record unemployment numbers.
This “dark night” is calling on you to “shine brighter.” This is your moment to step up your game, serve at a higher level, and add even more value.
Here are three suggestions for ways to “step it up” and shine a little brighter:
1. Limit your media. The news is not meant to inform you, it is meant to startle you. If you allow yourself to watch the news, you will not leave it feeling informed and empowered. Instead, you will leave feeling hopeless, fearful, overwhelmed, etc.
2. Double down on personal development. Proactively pour positivity into your mind. The uninspired cannot inspire. To inspire you must be inspired. Read a good book (or good news from Nugent Magazine). Listen to a positive podcast. Surround yourself with a mentor (even virtually). Apply what you learn.
3. Be public. People need to see your face and hear your voice. This is your moment to build lasting relationships. This is your moment to serve at a higher level, to add more value. Send a text message each day to a friend, or a vendor, or a client, or a partner, or a family member telling them how much you appreciate them. Check-in on people. Find out where you can serve. People need you right now. Do not be quiet and full of fear. Be public and share hope.