Step 1: Be aware of yourself
Before I get any further, It is essential to be aware of what you should do when something unexpected occurs. If you’re not sure what you can do to handle changes, I highly suggest Kolbe Evaluation for you. Kolbe evaluates your natural strengths, the instincts that come into play when unexpected things happen, or you face a new challenge or circumstance.
It’s equally important to identify your beliefs, priorities and establish your limits. This will allow you to make better decisions when faced with unexpected difficulties.
When you are aware of what you need to do in these circumstances, what are your priorities and values, It’s much easier to carry on the process of coming up with strategies that work for YOU.
Step 2: Make and adhere to an emergency plan in case of an emergency.
If you don’t have a plan for an emergency in place, There are two options to make one:
Note down the things that could be wrong with a particular project or how it was wrong before. Find the most effective way you’ll handle the situation next time. You could even conduct some studies on what has done work for other people dealing in similar situations. This is an excellent exercise to do if you are unable to accept the change, and all you think of is the negatives. You need to know why you should not make or modify something. It is advisable to do this prior to when you begin a project.
Begin from the beginning. Every time a new situation occurs and you’re confronted with an unexpected situation, take the time to record it and determine the best solution for you if similar situations occur at some point in the near future. This can be helpful, particularly if you’re a natural risk-taker and embracing new ventures is an automatic thing for you. This can be done during or following the start of the project.
The most important aspect at this moment is to follow your plan.
Who should be aware that your site isn’t working? Get in touch with that person!
Who can you contact if the child gets sick? Tell them to visit.
Who can help you change your appointment with a client when you’ve experienced a power failure and were not connected to the internet? Keep your contact information at the speed of light!! (TIP Be sure to save your contact information for your client in a place that is accessible to that person.)
How do you find a replacement for your assistant if your current one leaves without notice? Don’t wait around and hope for your employee to change their decision. Find the right one immediately.
The checklist could continue for a long time; I’m just trying to help you get started. What other obstacles have you encountered in your work or at work? What about your family?
A quick tip prior to my next step. One of my favorite ways to deal with power outages when it occurs (It helped me tremendously during the power outages here in GTA (that’s Greater Toronto Area this winter) The best way to recharge my phone while in my car. I have the car charger inside my vehicle throughout the day. My iPhone lets me keep in touch with the outside world, not just via text messages and phone calls, however, also via the Internet. Very useful, especially for those who run your business online!
Step 3. Give yourself some time to rest.
There are moments that you’re not able to do. Let go of the desire to please everyone! You can have a break when your child has to visit an ophthalmologist, or you have to rest in bed.
Always do your best; however, if there’s nothing that you could do about it, then do nothing. ~ Silvia Pencak
