A couple of years ago, I sat down and wrote about how our actions show that we continue to be enslaved in some way, or maybe not. I spoke about the fact that we are glorifying being overworked and tired and I committed to doing better because my health was at risk.
The universe did not believe I was serious and felt the need to give me a helping hand. On 1st May 2022, I fell. Now the irony of this is that someone had recently asked me about joining the growing craze to rekindle roller skating and I laughed and said: “Not me girl, I can’t take a fall at my age”. Those words were like a challenge to a greater power because a couple of weeks later I fell. Let me say that again….I fell. This is now two years later and I am still reflecting on the lessons learnt.
I fell and that fall cost me four months away from work, thousands of dollars in medical bills and many painfilled days and time, lots of time, spent in physiotherapy. But I also gained a lot. I gained a better appreciation for all that I have. It made me acknowledge that I have a lot. I have my family, my friends, my life.
My organisation did not pause for a moment. But I never expect it to. All of the “critical, urgent and can’t wait, because the world as we know it will collapse, projects” that could only be handled by me……. were either done by someone else or waited until I returned.
My family and friends, on the other hand, came by to be sure that I was managing. Someone did my hair…it was looking a little wild after a while (black girl magic there for sure), someone else brought over meals, and others did my numerous mother/child transportation runs. Still, others checked in to make sure that I was functioning and that my mental health was good.
And as I laid there in the bed/chair/sofa trying to find a comfortable position, I wondered…….What would my future hold if I don’t recover enough to continue doing what I presently do? That is when I saw a meme that said Learn how to Pivot because sometimes you have no choice.
As I reflect on this unexpected journey of recovery, I realize that sometimes life forces us to slow down and reassess our priorities. My fall was a stark reminder that our health and well-being should always come first in a world that often glorifies “busyness” and overwork.
The experience challenged me to confront my own beliefs about productivity and success. Was I truly thriving, or was I merely surviving in a cycle of constant hustle? My injury forced me to pause and acknowledge the toll it was taking on my body and mind.
During those four months of recuperation, I discovered the power of community and support. While my professional responsibilities continued without me, my loved ones rallied around me, offering assistance and encouragement. Their kindness and generosity reminded me of the importance of human connection and empathy.
As I grappled with uncertainty about my future, I stumbled upon a simple yet profound truth: resilience lies in our ability to adapt and pivot when faced with unexpected challenges. Embracing change can be daunting, but it also opens doors to new possibilities and opportunities for growth.
So, as I continue on this chapter in my journey and wait to embark on the next, I carry with me the lessons learned from my fall. I embrace the notion of pivoting with grace and resilience, knowing that even in the face of adversity, I have the strength and support to navigate whatever lies ahead.