In February, you get the opportunity to build on what you started in January. The burst of fresh energy we get from the holidays and the New Year can be a motivator as your life and business change and evolve. So often, our “new normal” can frustrate us. I’ve learned that a “new normal” can empower us.
A few years ago, I fell and broke my wrist – my right wrist, and I’m right-handed. I learned so much, from the very beginning of the experience, when I found myself the proud owner of a cast that ran from my fingers to just above my elbow. As I struggled to call an Uber driver with my left hand, my first thought was, “This is going to be very frustrating!”
My revelation came when I decided to make a game of it. I started the game by remembering a quote from Jim Rohn, that reminded me to “Turn frustration into fascination.” At that moment, I laughed out loud and thought, “I am as FASCINATED as I can be!” Hah! Game on!
When I got home I began to evaluate my ‘new normal.’ I realized that I would have to navigate the world with one hand … and my left hand at that. At first glance, it seemed that every task was impossible. Thus the game became how to find a solution for each situation.
I sat at my desk and thought, “How the heck am I going to work? I can’t type or write.” My only option was to look into dictation options. I sent an SOS to the team and they recommended different dictation apps for both my phone and my laptop. It was slow going, but nonetheless it worked! One solution found.
What about dressing and undressing? I usually work in my yoga clothes when I’m at home. Now I needed clothes that I could pull on and off with one hand. I found the perfect options at the mall. Loose fitting, easy on and off tops and bottoms. Another “problem” solved.
What about washing my face? Have you ever tried to wring out a wash cloth with one hand? This one took a few practice runs. I finally figured out that if I fold the wash cloth in half, and then half again, I could wring it out with my left hand. Solution found.
What about showering? This was hysterical. I found the perfect plastic bag to cover my cast. I purchased a body sponge and liquid soap. I mastered showering with my right arm held above my head. Solution found!
What about washing dishes? I found the perfect sponge with a handle. I placed the dish in the sink, used the sponge, put the sponge down, and rinsed the dish. A slow solution, but still a solution.
What about driving? I took Uber every day for four weeks. I am so grateful for this service.
What about exercising? No yoga handstands! I was limited to walking, so I made sure to take a walk every day.
What about travel? This took time management. Historically I could shower, put on a face, eat breakfast and pack in 90 minutes. With my cast on, this process took three hours! Travel mornings that used to start at 3:30am in order to catch the early flight now stared at 2:00am. Once at the event, in order be in the ballroom by 7:00am, historically I would wake up at 5:00am. With the cast on, I had to wake up at 3:00am. CRAZY! I was tired and yet, solution found.
Rather than limiting myself, I took every situation and did my best to joyfully and creatively find a solution. I refused to limit myself in any way. I turned my frustration into fascination, and took action.
I’m not saying it was always easy. I’m saying that it was worth it.
Are you limiting yourself simply because at first glance, you don’t see a solution?
I recommend that you identify at least three situations that are frustrating you right now. These situations – or new normal – deserve a joyful and creative solution. Turn your frustration into fascination and find the solutions you need to live life on your terms!