“A calm mind brings inner strength and self-confidence, so that’s very important for good health.” Dalai Lama.

In a speech in Cape town on June 6 1966, the American Politician Robert Kennedy made a speech which included the quote “Like it or not, we live in interesting times. They are times of danger and uncertainty.” This quotation from 54 years ago could equally be applied to the situation we find ourselves in at present with the Coronavirus (Covid-19) crisis.

It has been a surreal time in the UK over the past few weeks. Our daily lives have been severely altered in a short space of time. Schools have closed, people have been urged to work from home where possible. We have been asked to stay indoors and only venture out if our journey is essential, to collect shopping or medical supplies or care for a vulnerable person. Many non-essential shops, bars, cafes, restaurants and cinemas have closed. Only key workers are allowed to move about freely.

I never envisaged when I wrote my goals for 2020 that we would all face a situation like this. The goals I devised then don’t seem important at the moment. I would just settle for us to see the back of this dreadful virus as soon as possible with the loss of life kept as low as possible. My personal desire at present is quite simple. It’s for myself, my family, friends and connections to all emerge from this situation safe, healthy and happy.

On the subject of happiness, Friday March 20th was the United Nations International Day of Happiness. This campaign is an annual global celebration and is co-ordinated by Action for Happiness, a non-profit movement of people from 160 countries, supported by a partnership of like-minded organisations.

Action for Happiness believe that a profound shift in attitudes is underway all over the world. People are now recognising that ‘progress’ should be about increasing human happiness and wellbeing, not just growing the economy. They believe that the day is more than just a fun celebration, it also reminds us all that the world is a better place when we connect with and care about the people around us.

Mark Williamson, Director for Action for Happiness said on March 20, “Some of us may not feel like celebrating at the moment – and that’s understandable. This is a very difficult time for our global human family! Life has been disrupted and lots of things are outside of our control. So, I feel all the more glad that Action for Happiness exists to help people look after their wellbeing and support each other. Our work reminds us to try to look for what’s good and respond constructively, even in dark times. For this year’s International Day of Happiness, we are encouraging people to Keep Calm, Stay Wise and Be Kind.”

I thought that this message is a good one for us all to adopt to help us navigate and cope with the current crisis and the fear, anxiety and uncertainty that it creates.

This is how Action for Happiness define this:

Keep Calm

There are lots things outside our control. Let’s remember to breathe and focus on what really matters so we can respond constructively.

Stay Wise

Making wise choices helps everyone. Let’s choose positive actions that support our wellbeing and help others to do the same.

Be Kind

We’re all in this together, even when we’re forced apart. Let’s stay connected and reach out to help others who may be in need.

As we face this global crisis together, let’s focus on positive ways to look after ourselves and each other.

This week, why not pause for a few moments to reflect and consider what actions you can take to Keep Calm, Stay Wise and Be Kind.

Stay safe and Stay well.

To arrange a free no obligation consultation, please contact Stephen Pauley via the contact form or by e mail: Stephen@befirstclass.co.uk