How to reset during the Great Pause
We're in the Great Pause of 2020.
Over the past weeks and months, we’ve seen so many aspects of our lives disrupted and challenged. With the global pandemic and social unrest, we’ve returned to basics and the fundamentals of what it means to be human. As a result of the Great Pause, we’ve been forced to stay home, examine our relationships and our life priorities.
That’s why I’ve been striving to cultivate a beginner’s mindset.
As humans, it’s natural for us to block out information that contradicts experiences we’ve had in the past. Especially as we get older, it’s natural to bring what we’ve already learned into the present moment. Sometimes that tendency protects us and keeps us out of harm’s way. Yet, it’s also tempting for preconceptions or assumptions to block us from seeing new possibilities.
If you have children, you know that little ones take a fresh approach. They’re excited to explore. They’re delighted to learn! A child’s interest in the world is genuine; their curiosity is palatable.
That’s a beginner’s mind.
What if we could adopt a beginner’s mindset when thinking about our financial wellness?
When I ask people what comes to mind when they hear the words “personal finance,” I’ve never heard a reply including the words exciting or delightful.
Instead, I’ve heard:
Ugh! (followed by audible groan)
Spreadsheets… (accompanied by scrunched up nose and brow)
That movie Wolf of Wall Street (accompanied by look of disgust)
And one of my personal favorites…. Sorry, Sheila, what did you say? I heard the word finance, I automatically shut down and stopped listening.
I get it. I really do. However, I know that the automatic shutdown approach is not one to set you up for success on your financial journey. Deep down, you know this too…
What would your financial journey be like if you adopted a beginner’s mindset? What can our world be like if we collectively challenge assumptions during the Great Pause?
By devoting time to understand your assets, liabilities and spending habits with openness and curiosity, you begin to shift your money mindset.
Start with one item on your financial wellness to-do list and decide you will bring a sense of curiosity to it.
For example, if you’re an entrepreneur with a lingering task to learn about disability insurance, do it! Consider asking a fellow entrepreneur how they’re covered, and then enjoy a conversation about other topics too. Life insurance frequently takes center stage in policy discussions, but the likelihood of becoming sick or injured is greater than dying for most of us.
If you happen to be a shareholder of Amazon, you’ve likely heard Jeff Bezos’ mantra about “Day 1.” As a company founder, Bezos was wary of rigidity and risk aversion. His Day 1 mantra is a reminder for the business and for employees to cultivate a beginner’s mind, encouraging experimentation and innovation.
Think of today as your Day 1.
Good news! Tomorrow will also be Day 1 :)
We all have that childlike curiosity inside. It’s time to turn it into your superpower!