What is Certain During Times of Uncertainty

To say that the last weeks have yielded some uncertainty would be the understatement of, well, our lifetime. Simply put, two weeks ago many of us probably didn’t think about social distancing as something we’d ever have to practice, much less the significance of why we would practice it. 

But nonetheless, here we are, clinging to the things we know. We call those things instincts, and as I reflect on my work the last many years, I can’t help but dissect this pandemic in terms of what’s happening in the workforce. 


Your instincts are determining your responses

We each respond differently to situations because we are wired differently. So, in this blog we’ll look into a few different ways that your instincts are determining your responses; specifically to the COVID-19 pandemic.

I should highlight however, the goal of this post is to simply become aware of how and why we are each individually responding the way we are. Not to try and provide justification or judgement towards a specific response. 


The ways you are instinctually responding  

Below we are going to use Kolbe Wisdom™ to identify 5 different ways you are instinctually responding. Each perspective will provide a definition of what the instinctual response is, a few examples of what that may look like during this social distancing period, and a couple insights to help you navigate your unique instinct in this time. 

Fact Finder™

The instinctive way we gather and share information. Someone who Initiates on the Fact Finder weighs the pros and cons and makes sure that decisions are made with data. If this sounds like you, you may be diving into the plethora of articles that are currently being shared throughout different media outlets. In an effort to not be bogged down with the sheer amount of “shared” information available, ask yourself what you’re exactly looking to find, and go to websites that collect information firshand (i.e. the Center for Disease Control). 

Follow Thru™

The instinctive way we organize. Someone who Initiates on Follow Thru will make sure there is a structure in place. If this sounds like you, you may be constantly looking for an updated timeline or plan for how we, both socially and economically, are planning to navigate the coronavirus situation. While there is no finite answer to this timeline or plan at the moment, you could take more of a micro perspective, reigning in your daily home schedule (kids and work) and planning for the things you can (how you are prepared with food, household items, and the like). 

Quick Start™

The instinctive way we handle risk and uncertainty. Someone who Initiates on Quick Start will jump right in and thrive in the unknown. While these individuals may be quick to think on their feet, they are not immune to worry, or other emotional responses. Thus, if this sounds like you, it’s important to know that it’s okay to not have everything figured out during this time of uncertainty. Please also note that others need your talents right now!  They need your ability to brainstorm and think on your feet.

Implementer™

The instinctive way we handle space and tangibles. Someone who Initiates on Implementor needs a physical tool to unleash their hands-on energy. If this sounds like you, you’re probably actively looking for something to do. Try getting those home projects on your list done (i.e. clean out a closet or garage, or do some yard work). Implementers also have a need to be in different spaces. So, give yourself permission to, safely and appropriately, move around. Whether that be a walk or drive, know that you instinctually need your space. 

Mediators

React to each of the Kolbe Action Modes™ outlined above.  Specifically, you thrive in group settings. If this sounds like you, you’re probably missing out on the collaborative, in-person efforts of your normal professional experience. To remedy this in the meantime, look into tools like ZOOM, Slack, and others, which can keep you connected and active in the conversations happening in your workplace. At the end of the day, it’s important that you create the opportunity to have a team dynamic from the comfort of your home (or wherever you are socially distancing yourself). 


While each of the above suggestions and insights won’t fix what we are currently enduring, my hope is that they help you individually navigate the new normal we find ourselves within. The COVID-19 virus is affecting professionalism as we know it, and it’s personal.

So let’s find what personally works best for our individual instincts. 

Be smart. Be safe. 

-E