As the United States begins the process of reopening, related to the Pandemic, we can experience this process with a variety of emotions. This spectrum of emotions may run between excitement, to relief, to fear and back again. A possible result of this kaleidoscope of emotions is to lead us into a state of ambivalence and repeatedly stating, “Yes, but…” During a state of ambivalence, we are continually weighing the pros and cons of the situation trying to reach a sense of personal balance. If a state of balance is not reached we can become stuck, something often referred to as, analysis paralysis. The result of being in a state of analysis paralysis will move us away from personal resilience, the ability to access one’s strengths, and leave us feeling stuck with no personal choices. The good news is, once again, that with reflection we can tap into the storehouse of our strengths and move beyond the state of ambivalence.
Key Takeaways
The process of the United States opening, related to the Pandemic, will cause a new host of emotional experiences.
This spectrum of emotions can produce ambivalence.
The good news is, when we tap into our strengths, we can move beyond the state of ambivalence.
Best Practices
Continue your quest for personal strengths.
Assess the risks of old behaviors and the potential benefits of new behaviors.
Continue to nourish your mind-body-soul with nutrient dense foods and fluids, quality sleep, physical movement and spiritual practices.
Things to Limit
Saying, “Yes, but.”
Minimizing our ability to change.
Discounting our emotional state.
Minimizing the influence of the mind-body-soul connection.
Quote of the Week
“In these times I don’t, in a manner of speaking, know what I want; perhaps I don’t want what I know and want what I don’t know.” ~ Marsilio Ficino
In closing, facing the future can be a daunting task. However, if we allow ourselves to remain stuck and wait for the results, we will feel that we have nothing to contribute and loose our sense of hope. Identifying our hopes and aspirations for the future offers the strong possibility that we will create the future we want.
Be well,
paraDocs
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The paraDocs are Dr. Francis L. Battisti, PhD, Psychotherapist, Distinguished Psychology Professor and former Executive V.P and Chief Academic Officer and Dr. Helen E. Battisti PhD, RDN, CDN, Chief Nutrition Officer at SpNOD, Health Promotion Specialist, Research and Clinical Registered Dietitian Nutritionist and former Assistant Professor.
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