DON’T EVER CHALLENGE “WORSE”

Many years ago, a now infamous comedian recorded a live performance at a Las Vegas Casino and without a doubt, it was one of the funniest things I have ever heard.  His use of self-deprecating humour combined with his fantastic story telling skills made for entertainment on a grand scale.  In one routine, he recites his experience at the roulette wheel and after yet another losing spin, in absolute frustration he cries “things can’t get any worse!” to which  “Worse” replies, “don’t ever challenge worse!” and indeed things DID get worse for him.

We are currently experiencing, what is being termed, a once in a generational crisis.  The COVID-19 pandemic has brought the global economy to its knees and here in Australia, we have not been spared the effects.  We are seeing business closures and unemployment on a mass scale likened to the great depression.  Add to the financial and economic cost is the emotional strain.  We were asked, now ordered to stay home to control and eliminate the spread.  People feel isolation and depression not being able to socialise with friends and loved ones and whilst we are encouraged to seek the “safety” of our homes, the spectre of domestic violence raises its ugly head and for some, home is not safe.

We are pummelled with details, statistics and images of this global horror from every angle and from every medium and it’s fair to say, things will get worse before they get better.  Ultimately, it is our responsibility to filter the information, limit the intake and create some perspective with what is going on in the world.  The reality is, no matter how “bad” we see things, there is ALWAYS a worse version.   I’m an optimist by nature and so my hope for the readers of this post is to instil some positivity and create some perspective.

There Is Help

We really need to go polar opposite and consider and be grateful for what we do have, which for the majority, prior to this, we took for granted.  A roof over our heads, food only the table and our health just to mention the obvious.  Between the government, ATO and financial institutions, there is help on an unprecedented scale.  Now I know some readers will be very cynical about that but each to their own.  In my A Cuppa with The Con Versationalis” interviews, I have learnt that many of the rules and means testing for obtaining assistance have either changed or been relaxed so more people can qualify.  I urge you, don’t just assume you don’t qualify….ASK THE QUESTION.  Put pride and ego aside.  It would be awful finding out down the track that you could have qualified for assistance.

Being Self Isolated Doesn’t Mean You Can’t be Connected.

We understand why we have to self-isolate but we don’t have to disconnect.  Technology gives us infinite ways to stay in touch and connect with our friends and loved ones even if it’s just a good old fashioned phone call.  Humans crave contact, it’s in our biology.   Why do you think solitary confinement in prisons is considered such a harsh penalty?  You don’t have to be alone.

Look At All The Spare Time!

One of the most common excuses is “I don’t have time”.  Guess what?  Can’t use that excuse now!  For some, they have more time than they know with to do with.  While we have no idea when this situation will end, one thing is for sure….It WILL end.  The question then is, how are you using this precious commodity which currently seems to be in such abundance?  Are you learning a new skill or undertaking some online course?  It’s fair to say the labour market will be more competitive than ever.  How will you stand out?  Are you building stronger connections and enhancing your relationships at home i.e. your parents, spouse, partner or significant other and your children.

The choice is ours on how we see things and the label we attach to them be it good or bad.  As much as some hate the saying, it is what it is.  Don’t be like the comedian, don’t ever challenge “worse” because things can always be worse….much, much worse.

As always, I look forward to your comments and feedback.

Until next week, stay safe, stay positive and stay connected.

My name is Con and I am The Con Versationalist