Moderation is a life essential

19 Mar Moderation is a life essential

A basic essential

There is a saying ‘ moderation in all things’. You get thrown off balance when moderation is not in play. Restraint goes out of the window when events happen that impact yourself or other people; sometimes, they impact a few, sometimes many. Moderation is a life essential.

When you practice one characteristic, you will find that you are putting into action more than one positive aspect. Have you ever noticed that?? For example, the toilet paper panic buying in Australia shows that moderation is lacking. People are stockpiling, leaving others who need it now in need. Naturally, people who need this essential item are angry that there has been a lack of thoughtfulness. Lack of consideration of others has resulted in physical fights.

The bigger picture

Australia produces toilet paper. That means unless people panic buys, there will always be plenty for all. Emotions have got the better of people. 

Additionally, governments suggest a specified distance between individuals. Ironically enough, the most crowded places are the hordes of people who clump together in supermarkets.

The worst behaviour is on display for the world to see. Additionally, there are many examples of people who are kindly taking care of others – friends, family and strangers who are unable to take care of themselves. Also, creative ideas come to fruition in times like this. The #TheKindnessPandemic encourages kindness towards one another. 

Back to basics

Fear, anxiety and terror will reduce when Australia returns to buying what they need from their shopping list. Supermarket staff will feel less anxious about going to work because customers will be less volatile. Staff will feel safer, as well as some consumers, including the elderly.

So why go crazy now? Is it because they are concerned that they may end up in isolation for 14 days? Have they forgotten about how advanced technology is and that they can do online grocery shopping if needed? And that Australia will pull together in times of need as they have before?

Australia’s culture

In times of need, Australia has a reputation for being friendly and helping each other. Australia was regarded as being an accommodating, helpful, kind and generous nation, what happened?

Are we turning a corner? Technology has made us more divided, yet at the same time, more united. How connected are we feeling when it comes to fighting with fellow shoppers over products on supermarket shelves? Australians are known for helping each other when the going gets tough. Treating people with kindness and respect is required. Understanding the difference between the facts and the rumours is all-important too.

Aussie’s are proud when it comes to their reputation for being friendly, easy-going, helpful and supporting the underdog. How are we reflecting that at the moment?

Actions speak louder than words

I wonder, what are we teaching our kids during this pandemic? Are we role modelling best practice strategies such as bending your elbow and coughing or sneezing into it?

Are we teaching children about the importance of handwashing and how washing your hands reduces germs? As well as when it is best to wash your hands? Children need constant reminding to cover their mouth when they cough.

Is selfishness something children are learning from panic buying? What are children learning when we are buying what we need and leaving basic shopping essentials for others? Showing how to be thoughtful so that everyone can buy what they need is a great life lesson.

By being kind and offering help to people in need will benefit the next generation as they learn social skills and how to connect with others. Are we teaching our children to be helpful and kind to people who need some help? Are we teaching children how to protect themselves? Do children understand that anyone can get coronavirus? And that it doesn’t reflect negatively on that person, to reduce bullying in the schoolyard or online?

By taking this opportunity to educate our children by being open and honest with them, you can still be mindful not to instil fear, terror or anxiety onto them.

Airlines teach us to take care of ourselves first. That is necessary so that we can look after others. Teach them to be kind, to themselves and others, so then everybody wins.