The tsunami wave of change isn’t set to end in 2022. Within the past couple of weeks, we’ve seen the swearing of a new Prime Minister, the death of Queen Elizabeth II and a whole lot of geopolitical, economic, energy and climate fears. It feels easy to be overwhelmed and forget about making light in dark times. But the more I’ve made the effort to try to smile, have a laugh, do something spontaneous, the amount I’ve gained from those moments becomes even more invaluable.
Recently I joined a dance class that has reunited me with a joy I haven’t felt since I was a dance teacher in my early 20s. Laughing at myself, tripping on my own heels and sharing those moments with others, ignites a light-hearted, positive and energic energy I had removed myself from as a ‘serious’ adult. I’ve had several people comment on how they love my smile after class, started to make friends and enjoy the classes even more.
While it may not be dancing for you, think back to those times when play was a sacred part of your day as a child. When feeling down, depressed, or overwhelmed, strengthen the types of fun experiences that become incompatible with that state, try to laugh, move your body and actively seek out moments for fun with others.
Hey, I know one! 😉 Why not start your fun off with this survey to improve ResponsAbility? 😄 I’d really appreciate learning more from you about how it can be improved. 🙋🏽
What I’m watching
This is a welcome talk I found, recently released, so TED speaker Catherine Price hasn’t skipped any of difficulties we’ve been up against the past two years. Yet, she’s cultivated her ability to have fun in all sorts of places, in different scenarios and with different types of people despite it. She redefines ‘fun’ from a light-hearted, childish and optional to a necessity we need to keep healthy, build resilience and meaningful life-long memories.
Watch and let me know the fun you get up!
Quote I’m pondering
“I am not who you think I am; I am not who I think I am; I am who I think you think I am.”
Charles Horton Cooley
Songs I can’t get enough of
Beautiful Chorus- a unique band formed signings around mantras and words of affirmation. When these lyrics and tunes get stuck in my head I can more easily get into a creative flow, boost my energy and retrieve their positive messages when needed. What songs help you keep positive and light?
Small wins, big gains
Last Sunday, I ran the Scottish Half Marathon, shaving 15-min
utes off my previous time to cross the line in 2 hours, 4 minutes (and 39 seconds if you wanted to know😄). So far, I’ve raised £722.99 for Cancer Research UK in honour of my mother who passed away. This surpassed my expectations of the generosity of others, even in tough times. The next big physical challenge will always be accompanied by fundraising for a cause, as means, even more, after crossing the finish line. Thank you again to everyone who donated! ❤️
💡 Don’t forget to answer the quick and simple ResponsAbility survey that would really help improve this newsletter and the other ways I can provide value to you at scale. It shouldn’t take more than 5 minutes and is anonymous.⭐️
Thank you!
Jillian❤️
For more books, courses and upcoming talks, find it all here: www.jilliankowalchuk.com