If this feels like a battle, these are the rules – Rules 9 & 10

20.12.2023

Author: Shiri Ben-Arzi, PMC, MCC

This is the 5th blog post in the series of blog posts called –

If this feels like a battle, these are the rules –  20 Rules for times of crisis”.

(Special thanks and appreciation to Sasha Khazanov and Dr. Cherie Carter-Scott for their inspiration).

 

In this post, I’ll address rules 9 and 10.

(to read the previous post about rules 1-8, click HERE )

 

Rule #9 –

Time alone is not the same as loneliness.

Sometimes, it is important to take time alone, catch your breath, and distance yourself from social interactions. This is not the same as going into a state of lonely seclusion, disconnecting from sources of support, and refusing help.

The first option restores a state of resourcefulness.  The second option depletes.

Make sure to be aware of the ongoing states of loneliness. When you find yourself in such an ongoing state, reach out to someone and ask for help.

If you feel you cannot shift out on your own, ask someone you trust to keep an eye on you and reach out to help you shift.

 

Rule #10 –

This is the time to learn to lean on others, receive help, and be supported.

This does not mean you are helpless or dependent. It means you are smart and resourceful.

There is a lot of help out there, you just need to be willing to see it.

Some of these resources will be free; others will have a fee. Some will come in the form of people close to you and some in the form of professionals.

Don’t wait to fall apart or come undone at the seams before you ask for help.

And, if you are struggling with rule #9, you can always find someone to help you find a good place and time where you can have some alone time.

 

In the next blog post, I will address rules 11 and 12.