We May Be In The Same Boat...

The current pandemic we are all experiencing is teaching me so much about human resiliency and purpose. It is a storm of the ages and has created huge impact points ranging from our health to the economy.

Writer Damian Barr recently shared an article about all of us being in the same storm and I feel his context is a great angle to illustrate how strengths play a central role in each of us. In keeping with the title theme, we are in the same storm, but on different rowboats. Each of us has a unique set of strengths which results in vastly different approaches as to how we strategize the direction of our boat as we attempt to weather this storm.

It is also worth noting that some are riding in different types of boats – some are cruising in big yachts with plenty of resources, which are better equipped to manage the unpredictable storm. Conversely, most are floating in some variation of a rowboat, more exposed to the elements, a few with only one oar in the water as they struggle to keep their family afloat. Some row fast towards a specific target, while others adopt more of a strategic, “stay calm and hold your position” plan. One constant, regardless of your boat size, is that your natural strengths dictate how you approach this crisis.

I began thinking about this more from the perspective of my profession as a Gallup StrengthsFinder Coach. I started to use my natural gift of being “Futuristic” to try and see further down the path of this journey.

You see, it is true we are all in the same boat right now (COVID-19), but we have all adopted different strategies to navigating our boat because of the unique talents that we possess. It ties into how we are wired to do certain things, which results in why we do things the way we do things.

This past week I sat down to write about my experience of working through the COVID-19 era. I see the beauty in all people and value the individuality of each person. I also get a fairly good view of people’s strengths during this time.

For the many out there in the rowboat scenario, this power source paints a clear picture of how strengths can influence your approach to this crisis. As an example, you will almost immediately determine those who possess “Competition” as a top strength by their sheer spirit and intensity of how they row. They are always seeking to win. It is also easy to spot someone with “Empathy” as a top strength, as they become more concerned with how others are performing around them versus being completely focused on their own performance.

Some are making their way through this challenging time with great “Positivity”, which affords them the ability to see some of the silver linings coming out of this experience (yes, there are some!). As they row, they are telling others “we got this” or “you can do it”!

Some are navigating a path by using deep thinking and internalizing what this all means and how it is all connected for a greater purpose.

Then there are others who have taken a much different path altogether and have come up with ways to reinvent themselves. They are the ones modifying their rowboat or trying to tweak the oars for maximum performance, often seeking an alternate and more efficient path.

I know someone who just jumped in their rowboat without a plan and departed, while another has yet to make a move as he is thinking about the potential risks involved.

Regardless of your strategy, your individual strengths will always shine through. My hope is this article highlights that there is no specific right way to row the boat per say, but there is individuality in how each of us manages through the crisis.

Most importantly, we are all in this together. Developing a solid network can serve as your proverbial "life vest" during these unpredictable times and pay out big dividends in the event you have been furloughed or laid off. For those seeking a job, this is what can set you apart from others.
 

Do not quit and do your best to remain positive throughout the journey.

Since the beginning of this pandemic, I have been hosting a weekly virtual event called “Discover Your Strengths” which is a personal development program based on the StrengthsFinder 2.0 book by Gallup. I get to meet the most beautiful people from all around the world. Most are going through their own unique experiences and coping with their own set of challenges. Watch for your opportunity to join in on this event!
 

Discover Your Strengths Part 1 begins again on May 7th and May 20th.
Discover Your Strengths Part 2 returns on May 14th.

For more information, you can see event details here.
 

I am praying for you all and wish only good health in the coming days.

Cordially,
Kelly