There’s an old saying that the only certainties in life are death and taxes.
I think what’s even more certain is the unexpected.
This past week reminded me of that. I’ve had some tough, unexpected things show up. I won’t go into all the details, but here’s what I know: when life throws curveballs, responsibilities don’t stop.
A friend of mine put it this way:
“In my role, I carry responsibility in two worlds: the boardroom and the living room. My company expects leadership; my family expects presence. When life throws curveballs, I can’t drop one to catch the other. Leadership starts with how I respond when things don’t go to plan.”
I can’t deny those words of wisdom.
None of us escape the unexpected, but we can choose how we respond.
And here’s what I want you to remember, whether you’re going through something right now, or the next time life throws the unexpected your way:
- Give yourself permission to SLOW-DOWN. If you can step back, even for a moment, do it. I did today.
- Lean on your people. You’d show up for your friends or family in a heartbeat, let them show up for you, too. Don’t carry it all alone.
- Treat yourself with the same kindness you give others. You deserve that grace.
Stay steady.
Stay strong.
Remember
The unexpected may shake you, but it doesn’t have to break you. ~ Unkown
~ Ricardo