We are currently living in unprecedented times. There is a lot of uncertainty, discouragement, fear, even panic, and while there are so many negatively affected by Covid-19, there is also a silver lining.
This pandemic has caused a minimization of distractions and while I believe there is something waiting to be birth out of all of us, this is not a productivity contest. It is however an “opportunity of a lifetime that must be seized in the lifetime of the opportunity.”
Like the tech boom of the 90s or online learning, this is an opportunity zone for those willing to take advantage.
I want to give you five opportunity zones with corresponding 19 things we can be doing during this season to seize the day(s).
Embrace
The world has seemed to slow down tremendously, and united us with the ones we love. What a perfect time to embrace your loved ones and spend quality time discovering, dreaming, or doing projects together. Take this time to embrace your family, embrace your friends and embrace your flaws. Take this time to peel back layers and spend quality time having quality conversations and experiencing quality life-changing moments.
Action Tips
- Quality conversations
- Quality Time
- Do Projects
- Dream together
Encouragement
There are many who may not be in a position like you. They weren’t displaced to work from home, or they didn’t maintain a job during this time. Many people still have to get out and work through this pandemic and others have no jobs at all. This is a perfect time to offer encouragement to those essential workers and encourage those who are being affected by this pandemic in a way that is causing fear or sadness. Be creative and purposeful and remember that an encouraging word can go a long way to sustain someone. Unite friends, church groups, etc to write thank you cards, make phone calls or do drive by celebrations to warm the hearts of those in need.
Action Tips
- Write thank you letters/cards
- Drive by Celebrations (at hospitals, churches, friends, etc)
- Make Encouraging Calls
Education
As we are embracing our flaws, this is a perfect opportunity for us to develop ourselves. For many of us, we have put off schooling because we have said, “I don’t have the time.” Now I am not naïve to think you will automatically have all the time in the world, but this is a great reminder that we will never have enough time. We have to just make the time and before we know it, we will be done. I remember going back for my masters. I didn’t have the time nor did I have the money to pay for a private school education. Fast-forward 2 ½ years later, not only did I complete a 69 credit hour program, but I was able to pay for it all.
Funny thing is, things out of my control forced me to go back and I am eternally grateful that what I kept putting off was finally completed and I am still reaping the benefits from that time (via connections, curriculum, and credentials).
Action Tips
- Spiritual Care (Remember, Repent, Return)
- Self Care
- Go back to school
- Learn new skill
- Develop business plan
Equipping
I know many people with a wealth of wisdom, and what better way than to serve your generation well and to maximize your resources than to take advantage of everyone being at home. This is a perfect time to teach the song, train that skill, or preach that sermon, because many people are all ears and wanting something to do other than what has been done. Technologies like Facebook live, Zoom, or online course platforms are a perfect way to affect your generation well. Start equipping today and see the fruits of your labor tomorrow.
Action Tips
- Teach Others
- Perfect Your Skills (you have an audience waiting)
- Launch Your Online Course/School
- Launch Youtube Channel
- Exercise
Entertainment
I do believe entertainment is valuable and a part of our day-to-day lives. I have enjoyed my share of streamed services and social media. However, I would encourage you to find balance, because the worst thing you could do during this time is to increase your knowledge of your favorite show and not increase in things that has a lasting impact. Dedicate certain days or times for entertainment by structuring your day to accomplish the things that matter most.
Tips
- Limited Streaming
- Play Family Games
I believe that as we start embracing these 5 zones, we can emerge with that single vision, birth of that dream, or possibly emerge stronger and more creative than before. Remember this is a perfect opportunity to prepare for life post Covid 19, the question is will you emerge the same or stronger?
Let me leave you with the words of this Proverb
“I passed by the field of a sluggard, by the vineyard of a man lacking sense, and behold, it was all overgrown with thorns; the ground was covered with nettles, and its stone wall was broken down. Then I saw and considered it; I looked and received instruction. A little sleep, a little slumber, a little folding of the hands to rest, and poverty will come upon you like a robber, and want like an armed man.” Proverbs 24:30-34