We strongly believe that a healthy internal world is an oft-overlooked and yet extremely important part of being human. During a pandemic, there is more time for self-reflection, self-discovery, and self- adjustment. Here’s how we recommend people grow on a personal level in this season:
Make a Schedule: When kids are in school and adults are at their offices, there is usually a daily, weekly, and monthly schedule to stick to. Some of this is self-imposed (a Rule of Life, perhaps) and some of this is imposed by others. Stay-at-home orders tend to give more flexibility and authority to the individual or family to make their own schedule. Although making the schedule can be daunting in and of itself, not having a schedule can wreak havoc on one’s internal world quickly. We encourage an attainable Rule of Life for each household during this season.
For instance, you might develop a daily or weekly rhythm in each of the following categories:
- SPIRITUAL (up) – What it something attainable that I can do regularly that will help me move toward God?
- PERSONAL (in) – What is something attainable that I can do regularly that will help me be healthy internally?
- RELATIONAL (in) – What is something attainable that I can do regularly that will help me develop meaningful relationships?
- VOCATIONAL (out) – What is something attainable that I can do regularly that will help me impact the world around me?
Write your pandemic schedule down, post it where others can see it, stick to it even when you don’t feel like it. You’ll be surprised at how meaningful rhythm and regularity can be for development and growth. A schedule will help ground you while the world feels like it’s in upheaval all around you.