As we brace ourselves for the unpredictable and chaotic journey that is 2024, it feels a bit like trying to solve a puzzle with missing pieces. We're grappling with world events, political upheaval, dealing with climate change, altered work experiences and technological changes that we had never expected. With the awareness that times are changing, how do we successfully succeed and move forward in sharing positivity with those that we care about?
I'll be the first to admit that I don't have the all the answers, but I'm here to offer some insights and suggestions for coping in this evolving reality. In my role as a counselor for many years, I strongly support reaching out to others to share feelings and combat loneliness. By adding compassion and guidance, we help not only ourselves, but encourage positivity to those around us.
In the midst of all this, I would like to share an anecdote to make you smile and embrace the emotional support that our little animal companions can offer. We can’t forget our furry friends—the ones with wagging tails and purring hearts—who depend on us for their wellbeing and have grown accustomed to our increased presence during these times of change.
Meet Kenny, the pint-sized 5.5 lb. Chihuahua, basking in the extra attention lavished on him by his owner in sunny Hallandale, Florida. Kenny's human, Rafael, is a reconstruction contractor and property investor who's been managing much of his business from home. Kenny, of course, sees himself as a vital part of the team. In the photo, you'll find Kenny taking his guard duties seriously, keeping a watchful eye over a towering laundry pile – territory matters, after all.
Kenny has picked up a quirky new habit. When Rafael readies himself to leave the house and goes to slip into his work shoes, Kenny seizes one and drags it off to another room, growling fiercely and refusing to let go, even though the shoe is bigger than he is. Believe it or not, this dynamic duo now embarks on site visits together, with Kenny riding in the truck with his buddy during business calls. Talk about a unique and heartfelt relationship.
It is important to be acutely aware of how these issues impact the lives of those directly involved. It's crucial to infuse empathy into our decision-making process. Whether it's navigating the complexities of senior placement with a reluctant resident, sharing the need for family support or helping clients deal with feelings of isolation, is critical to remember that all involved have feelings and are experiencing the psychological implications of dealing with a new reality.
I encourage everyone going through uncertainty and change to do so with a healthy dose of empathy, a robust measure of resilience, and a hearty sense of humor – focusing on the beneficial behaviors and necessary compromises.