Maslow, hurricanes, & coping strategies
Hurricane Irene has brought to mind
Maslow’s hierarchy of needs. It’s about the fact that we need our most basic needs met (for food, shelter, and safety), before we can focus on dealing with our “higher” needs (for love, self-esteem, and a meaningful life). So, whether it’s a hurricane, or a personal storm of economic and career issues, we need to take care of basics first.The Serenity prayer reminds us of an important distinction, that in life there is:
What we can control – our actions, our words, what we pay attention to and focus on, and how we respond to circumstances & others
What we can’t control – the actions of others, Mother Nature
Some difficulties–and some opportunities–are of our own making. Others are not. Being able to distinguish between these two categories is important, and making the most of what we CAN control, that’s the big idea.
So this week let’s focus on coping skills basics: on staying safe, on getting enough sleep, on eating healthy, nourishing food, and checking in with our loved ones. As always, your feedback and blog comments are most appreciated. I’d love to hear your best coping strategies!
PS: Survey of the Musicians’ #1 Career Concern is still open (through Sept 1), please spread the word–we’d love to have more responders!
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