Over the past year, like many other nonprofit leaders, I was worried. I was worried about the negative effects the global pandemic would have on our ability to deliver our programs.
The moment the idea of our nonprofit organization, Mindful Littles, came to my heart and mind, I knew that it felt different. Perhaps it was the unshakeable knowing that was the difference.
Mental health challenges affect people of all ages, race, ethnicity and socio-economic status. As a Veteran who’s struggled with mental health, I know this to be true. Building resilience can help.
Yesterday morning I felt it – a shift in the air, a brightness to the sun’s light hitting the earth. A sign the world is changing, if only from one season to the next.
As a nonprofit professional, it probably comes as no surprise that I am a firm believer in the importance of helping others and giving back to your community. I love what I do, but it was as a volunteer that I really experienced the mental health upside of giving back.
Is the purpose of life to be happy? If so, that’s a pretty tall order for humans given the range and nuance of our emotions. Plus being in a constant state of happiness might not be as amazing as it sounds.
It’s been a stormy winter out here in Northern California. I’m grateful for it because we need the rain, but throw in cooler than usual temperatures and whipping wind and then we truly hunker down.
A Pandemic Bucket List can help us focus on what’s possible in this pandemic life. By trying something new and creating our own mini-adventures, we will remember more from this time than just the pandemic itself.
As chaos and uncertainty continue, leaders need to create and sustain safe spaces where everyone is welcome. Acting with compassion, inclusion and unity is critical now more than ever.