How To Think (Of Others) In Times Of Uncertainty

Very few things in life are certain. As a society, we can recognize that we’re definitely living in times of uncertainty right now - there’s a pandemic going on and it’s unlike anything any of us have ever known. The degree of knowledge you have about a thing informs how certain you are. Times of uncertainty, then, are those times when we don’t know what’s going to happen next, nor what to do. 

Consider this principle: there are things you can’t control and things you can. In times of uncertainty, the things that we can’t control but would like to control are at a high. During these times, it’s important to focus on what you can control. Want to think of others during times of uncertainty? First, you have to think of yourself.

The notion that you should put yourself first when looking to care for others can seem counterintuitive, but it’s important. You’ve probably heard it a thousand times before: you have to secure your own oxygen mask before helping someone else put on theirs. You may be thinking of others, but to truly help them you need to be standing on firm ground so that you have the strength and energy to help them.

Once you’ve established a schedule for yourself, and you’ve penciled in plenty of time for self-care, look to others. During this strange period, many of our usual resources are unavailable to us. We can’t go over to a loved one’s home to give them a hug. We can, however, schedule phone calls. Not texts, not emails, but good old fashioned phone calls; video chats if you prefer. Take the time to really talk about life - its ups and downs, your feelings, and any anxieties you and your loved ones may have. Be vulnerable with them; vulnerability begets vulnerability, and through this process healing occurs.

Thinking of others can also help you find a great degree of strength. Remember, when you can’t control a problem, having an impact on the things you can control can do a great deal of good for your mental health. Have you found yourself with more spare time as a result of life changes? Consider volunteering. You’ll not only give yourself a sense of agency by accomplishing real good in the world - you’ll, perhaps, help others to have a greater degree of control over their own lives, too. By looking outward to what we can do for others, we can tap into our own inner strength that may have been dormant. Strength comes from doing good.

We all fall on uncertain times at one point or another, be they caused by global events or personal loss. We provide cremation services in Winnipeg, but our work extends far beyond that. We are a resource that you can access in times of need or loss - we hope to help you through uncertain times. The more we can look to one another for strength and guidance, the more resilient and beautiful the world will become.