Navigating Uncertainties Within Our “New Normal” with Christy Erbeck Agile Coaches' Corner

Joining the podcast once again one of Dan’s favorite return guests, Christy Erbeck! Christy is a principal transformation consultant at AgileThought and a Certified Dare to Lead™ Facilitator (CDTLF). She has over 25 years of experience in domestic and international consulting, training and coaching, and working in both software development and non-product-focused environments, including manufacturing (discrete and process), distribution, and sales and marketing.
 
In this episode, they are exploring the topic of uncertainties. There’s a lot of uncertainty going on in the world right now with COVID-19. We’re in this awkward gray zone that Christy refers to as “the muddy middle.” And, as much as we’re getting used to this ‘new normal,’ there are still adjustments and daily changes that can be very disruptive to our psyche. So, in today’s conversation, Christy and Dan are taking a deep dive into exploring these uncertainties and Christy provides the tools and tips you need to better adapt during this confusing time and make the most of it!
 
Key Takeaways
What is this ‘new normal?’
The ‘new normal’ can refer to “the new better” in reference to organizational transformation or change (because with these new changes come new ways of working and new ways of thinking that create a better outcome than what was previously in place)
In reference to what we’re currently experiencing, ‘our new reality’ may be a better phrase
‘New normal’ is a concept of accepting the current disruption as our new reality to have an easier time adapting to the new way our day-to-day lives look
The sooner we recognize that this is our reality the better able we will be able to adapt, grieve our old reality, and find a way to make this current reality the best we can
Christy’s tips and tools for adapting to the ‘new normal:’
First, recognize where you are personally and take some time to reflect and go inward and ask yourself: “Where am I? How am I feeling?”
Christy uses a journal to track her mood every day so she’s better able to reflect on where she’s at
Recognize that we cannot, at this moment, move into comparative suffering (i.e. saying that your suffering is worth more than someone else’s and vice-versa)
Own how you feel
Dig deep into your ability to empathize and seek to understand how others are experiencing the ‘new normal’
Be overly generous with yourself (which will give you the space and capacity to be overly generous with those in your circle and community)
Adopt the concept “assume good intent” because, as you take care of yourself, you’ll have more space to assume good in others around you (which gives extra grace with your interactions with people)
Come together and allow everyone to share their voice and stories
Reach out for help if, in your process, you are still struggling (because you don’t have to do this alone)
Anti-patterns/How we should not respond:
Comparative suffering
Competitive storytelling
Listening to respond
 
Mentioned in this Episode:
APA’s Help Center
SILK + SONDER (Self-care monthly planner and journal subscription service)
“10 Eye-Opening Statistics on the Mental Health Impact of the Coronavirus Pandemic,” Forbes
The Road Less Traveled, Timeless Edition: A New Psychology of Love, Traditional Values and Spiritual Growth, by M. Scott Peck
The Four Agreements: A Practical Guide to Personal Freedom, by Don Miguel Ruiz
Turn the Ship Around!: A True Story of Turning Followers into Leaders, by L. David Marquet
Brené Brown
 
Want to Learn More or Get in Touch?
Visit the website and catch up with all the episodes on AgileThought.com!
Email your thoughts or suggestions to Podcast@AgileThought.com or Tweet @AgileThought using #AgileThoughtPodcast!