“ABC. ‘A,’ always. ‘B,’ be. ‘C,’ closing. Always be closing. Always be closing.” I may be aging myself with this movie quote from the 1992 movie, Glengarry Glen Ross, but I feel the sentiment is as prevalent as ever. Social media channels are overflowing with pressures to produce, learn or create and it seems this rhetoric has only intensified amid the COVID-19 pandemic.
Aspiring to improve oneself is admirable—that goes without question. If that’s how you’re dealing with feelings of isolation, boredom, fear and uncertainty, I applaud you. I look forward to reading about the wonderful things that were written, developed and invented as we self-isolate and socially distance ourselves from others.
However, uncertain times can also feel scary and overwhelming. If you’re struggling to homeschool your children, you are doing enough. If you’re struggling to get through the day with anxiety or depression, you are doing enough. If you’re an essential worker on the frontlines, you are doing enough. If you’re working a new job delivering packages or food so you can feed your family, you are doing enough. If you’re struggling in any way, you are doing enough.
You are producing enough.
You are learning enough.
You are creating enough.
You are doing enough.
You. Are. Enough.
If you need extra support during this pandemic (or any time, really), here are a few resources for emotional support and well being—so you don’t have to do this alone:
Call 911 if you or the person you are helping is in immediate danger.
24-hour National Suicide Prevention Hotline 1-800-273-8255 or text 838255
1-800-799-7233 or chat now
1-800-985-5990 or text “TalkWithUs” to 66746
24-hour Crisis Text Line Text “Home” to 741741
There are plenty of state and local resources available as well, so be sure to check your city or state government website for details.
If you have other national resources you’d like to see added to this list, please let me know. In the meantime, please stay home, stay safe and stay well.
And remember, you are enough.