The world is very volatile at the moment - the status quo changing from day to day as we try and continue living life in the new normal.
In fact, I would say over the last year or so, the only constant you could rely on has been the uncertainty. Uncertainty about the changing rules; uncertainty about your job and pay; uncertainty about your health.
And maybe it is because I am so deeply a part of the hospitality industry, but I feel that this feeling of uncertainty is felt no stronger than here. It may be May 2021, but to a lot of people in the industry, it still feels like May 2020. Establishments are still running on fumes - both in terms of manpower, as well as funds.
Now things could change for the better. The holy month of Ramadan is generally when a lot of expats travel home to visit family. However, with the current travel restrictions in place, many will choose to, or be forced to, stay. This presents an opportunity for establishments to attract and cater to a market that wouldn’t usually be around.
At the same time, the usual Ramadan tents and lavish, crowded Iftars will be off the list for many people. Would that further adversely impact the industry or the harsh summer to follow after?
Honestly, I don’t think anyone can even tell anymore. I definitely can’t.
What I can say is that things don’t look like they will stabilize any time soon. Malls are shut, cinemas remain empty in most part of the world. Cases of Covid continue to rise. Countries are still in lockdown.
So maybe you won’t get a promotion. Maybe the promised pay rise will have to wait. Maybe the perfect job is now off the market.
Instead of focusing on what’s not working out, focus on what is - and be grateful for it.
I, for one, am grateful to be able to continue doing what I love doing. I am grateful to be able to spend more time with my family.
What is it in your life at the moment that puts a smile on your face?
Your children? Your job? Your home?
The free time you have to binge watch Netflix?
Whatever it is, be grateful - and this uncertain that could give you the little spark of positivity you need to keep powering through.