Brexit – it’s time. How can we cope?
Brexit. If there is one word that no one wants to hear – and yet which is everywhere – it’s this one. I’m not sure that the UK could be in a worse position to exit the EU right now with incredible uncertainty, political infighting and upheaval and a great deal of hostility from those involved in negotiations about avoiding a No Deal. And yet, the exit date approaches. It’s easy to feel as individuals like we are completely at the mercy of those around the negotiating table in this situation and that can cause a great deal of anxiety. So, what can we do to cope in these rather troubled times?
Come together
There is nothing like turning to your community at moments like these to reinforce a sense of belonging and positivity. So, if you’re feeling isolated with your Brexit anxiety I’d recommend getting out into the community and joining in. You might volunteer locally, just catch up with old friends, do some business networking or come to my Friday morning surgeries at Open House Deli and say hello.
Opt for short-term planning
It’s always good to have long-term goals but right now it’s important that these aren’t set in stone. No one really knows what’s going to happen after 31st October, both in terms of how professional prospects might be affected and how all our personal lives will be impacted. Will there be enough food? Are we going to run out of medical supplies? While the logical adult in me assumes that someone, somewhere is taking care of all these details there is still the flicker of “what if they’re not?” If you’re getting the same kinds of feelings then this is a great time to focus on short-term needs and short-term planning. Set your goals and objectives up to 31st October and be prepared to be fairly fluid after that.
Be flexible
Uncertainty is difficult to deal with but probably one of the worst ways to attempt to cope is to try and lock down events, people, objectives and ideas. It makes much more sense to be open to adjusting as Brexit unfolds and resetting your course depending on the challenges that arise and the opportunities that may exist. And that’s another thing that’s important to consider – Brexit may not be all doom and gloom. For some there are bound to be fantastic opportunities and if you’re ready to adapt then you can make the most of any that come your way.
Get some support
My coaching services are designed exactly for moments like this – to support you in finding the right path and tackling uncertainties with grace and grit. I can help you to work productively even in the most challenging of environments and give you the tools to hold yourself accountable so that you can continue to navigate in the right direction despite choppy waters.
Brexit is coming. But, with the right approach, we can all cope with its uncertainties and perhaps even emerge on the other side to a brighter future too.