From the President

It isn’t often we get the chance to rewrite how we go about our lives, we don’t often get the opportunity to purposefully make changes to make our lives more enjoyable and rewarding.

This edition of Consulting Matters explores the theme of ‘new constructs.’ I’ve decided to take some creative licence and, building on that theme, talk about new beginnings.

The world has changed so much over the past six months. Overseas travel, or even the idea of having family from overseas visit for Christmas are not possible for the foreseeable future. The ways we work, relax and entertain ourselves have changed significantly.

Change hurts. It’s uncomfortable. It makes us step outside of our comfort zones and into the new. It is something that many of us, as creatures of habit, try hard to avoid. But like the lobster that has outgrown its shell, we can’t avoid change. And usually, it’s discomfort that encourages us to adapt and grow.

My life has certainly changed since COVID-19, albeit it not as much as others around the world. Interestingly, the changes coronavirus ushered in have granted me the opportunity to create some new habits.

I have been doing more sports coaching for my kids, something I didn’t get to do too often because I was travelling so much. I have been cooking more, which is something I love doing as a creative pastime but usually I am so stretched I can’t even think of what to cook. I have been spending more time with my wife and kids. I have been spending time with the people that really matter in my life. And I have taken to working from home one day a week without any meetings, so I can actually get to those important but not urgent things that make such a big difference.

Earlier this week I read an article about intentionally planning the change that you want in your own life. Later that day, I spent time talking with my kids about how we can change to be more compassionate to each other. It was nice to be at home and have that conversation during the week.

There are lots of things about this new world that I am finding really nice. That’s led me to ask - how do I hang onto the things that I love about this time? How can I make this change an opportunity to create new beginnings?

It isn’t often we get the chance to rewrite how we go about our lives, we don’t often get the opportunity to purposefully make changes to make our lives more enjoyable and rewarding.

It’s interesting that amongst all of the change of the last six months, I don’t miss the travel, the 4am wake ups, or eating room service at 9pm by myself. Instead, I have noticed that there are things that bring meaning and joy to my life that I didn’t get to do before.

In the spirit of new beginnings, I’m using COVID-19 as an opportunity to foster the new growth I don’t want to let go of. I want to be deliberate in the decision to spend time and energy on the things I have found during this time. Most of all, I want to be intentional about being kind enough to myself to have the space to do these things. I encourage you to do the same, and would love to hear what new beginnings you have made as a result of COVID-19. Share your stories with us at info@consultaustralia.com.au

Gerry Doyle

President