A Global Liminal Space
On 25th January I posted about liminal spaces. Today I feel the need to explore that again.
Liminal space is a threshold. The threshold of your previous identity, way of organising your time or work and a new way.
Right now you are in a liminal space, not one of your choosing but one you can, perhaps, find growth in.
It is a space of in-between. We are, I believe, in a space from which we will all emerge with a new perspective, a new way of living, a new way of leading and of working.
I notice that many of us have labelled this space, this is because we are hardwired to create a story that makes sense of where we find ourselves. I would like to suggest that we are not home schooling or working form home at the moment. I understand why we use these words but we need to be mindful of the expectations this then creates of ourselves and others. We are managing a transition from a way of being we knew well (what we considered 'normal') to something that is changing daily and is yet still very unknown.
This liminal space is a place of learning. It is a space where we can build a new understanding, a new self-concept, a new societal identity. Just like with any learning it is often the process that is more in important and more powerful than the answer itself. In this space we struggle and therefore grow.
A new identity is generated. This is a space for reflection about what to retain and what to let go. This is where we are now, we are being required to reset in every possible way and I believe we all need to take time to figure some things out before we try to get lots of stuff done.
It can feel uncomfortable to be in this space. It can also feel like a time of possibility. In my experience it is often both at the same time. You can feel challenged, scared and you can feel liberated by the possible future, a sense of hope.
I emerged from my own personal liminal space with more clarity, quiet confidence, even stronger integrity and more energy. Now almost 2 months to the day I find myself in another liminal space, this time I am joined by many.
I've found this space hard, at times I felt like I should be doing more to help and support the educators I normally work so closely with. Having started my own business last month I have felt like I failed before I even really got started. Each day has felt like a month and it seems everyone around me is busy and I am standing still.
That stillness is also my strength. I need to remember that. I need to hold onto that.
At the moment I am keeping it simple. I am making sure I get outside for a walk each day (while observing physical distancing and social solidarity). I am working out what a new routine can look like for me. I am keeping in touch with friends and family - technology is a gift right now. I am donating a day a week of my time to provide well-being support to NHS workers and have also offered some time to the Help Hub (set up to make sure that those who are feeling isolated can talk to someone).
Most of all I am doing what I know I do best and that is not to react to the current situation but to respond when the time is right for me and those I can best support and work with at this time and in the months to come. This is how and when I know I can add value for others.
If you are in the in-between bit or feeling the struggle, know that you will come through and you will find new clarity and energy. Oh, and of course, wash your hands!
