Well, here we are, it’s almost Christmas and here in the UK we’re back in the realm of masks, social distancing and everything else. Although we don’t have to go into lockdown which is a huge relief! Especially as some of us (that would be me!) are still trying to differentiate between the old normal and the new normal … Do we want it or is it something we just have to have? I think the answer is YES …

However, as this is an event that is obviously going to continue, possibly for years to come (sorry if I’m raining on your parade), I thought it might be nice to re-visit some tried but true bon mots to help with a little perspective. It’s so easy to throw your hands in the air and become fed up with it all but I think, having lived through a world-wide pandemic, we’re all much better than that …

Nothing of any real significance is going to happen while we’re in our comfort zone. The biggest worry we have is for our security, but if you’re stuck and have nowhere to go, how secure can you be? Really …

Even in lockdowns we have to take every possibility to challenge ourselves. If this is the new normal, let’s make it just that … normal.

The world is full of rich and successful failures. There is little that works the first time it’s attempted and if what you’re doing, whether it be a new online business or reading to the kids or even jogging, doesn’t seem to be working it doesn’t mean it won’t work. It just might not work now (which is when you want it to work) or in the way you’re doing it. Start thinking outside your box and find different ways to tackle it. If it was really that easy everybody would be doing it and you wouldn’t have an opportunity.

There’s an old Chinese saying: “The temptation to quit will be greatest just before you are about to succeed.” Having seen it in action, I couldn’t agree more! Having experienced it I understand it … never ever give up unless what you’re doing feels horribly wrong …

Of course, this is entirely normal … old and new.

This is a Just in Case moment because in reality the worst seldom happens. If you know what your cloud of “undefined consequences.” is/are, it doesn’t seem so bad. My father used to say “Learn to recognise when to stop fighting. If it is just too much then it probably isn’t meant to be”. And he was right!

Ever tried? Ever failed? No matter. Bruce Lee said …

Try Again. Fail again. Fail better.

Just keep your eye on the prize, keep focussing on what you want to happen and keep your sense of humour … which was difficult at times over the past couple of years.

Stop trying to see too far into the future. Stop trying to change the past … remember, you can’t press rewind.

Focus on the present. It’s all you have!

Never stop doing something new. Never stop improving. Work on your new normal and create something you really love … some things just don’t change.

This can be tricky because often when we have to make a choice, it can feel better to take as much time as possible which is perfectly normal. I mean, the more time we have, the more information we can gather. Right?

Well, Yes and No because there’s a point at which having more information doesn’t make for a better decision. There may even be serious disadvantages to taking your time.

So put on your big girl panties and decide quickly! See how that works for you …

Many people swear this is true and I’m not going to argue because I don’t know. Apparently, anything that is measured and watched, improves. Perhaps not lockdown in a pandemic! Anyway, please try it and let me know!

If you’re looking for problems, because you’re trying to work out what’s normal and what isn’t any more, take some time and look closely at the areas that may be new and different to you. This really depends on your business (if you’re in a business) or just your life! I know … sweeping … It may be your attitude or your stress levels. You’ll be surprised at what you find.

Try reading Happy Platitudes for Healthy Attitudes … just finished and perfect for brightening your attitude and instilling a sense of calm.

I know it’s normal for a lot of people to do this … old normal, not new!

Lighten up. None of us are in control as much as we like to think we are.

Find it. After all, you’re really lucky just to be alive. Life is short and this is so not a rehearsal!

As you start creating your new normal read 25 Ways to a Happier Healthier You It has been updated from the original; there is so much new research on happiness over the last few years … especially when we were all locked up. So do yourself a favour and start your new normal by raising your happiness quotient …