This is a conversation with energy and forward momentum and if you’re feeling in need of a ‘pick me up’ then this is for you.

That is not to say our conversation doesn’t acknowledge the current struggle, it does. But Jerry also asks us to think about what we can still achieve, asking important questions such as:

* What do we want our story from this time to be?* Who do we want to be in that story? Victim? Complainer? Villain? Bystander? Hero?* And importantly for parents – how best to communicate with our kids in a way that values their perspectives.* How can we finish 2020 strong given the current circumstances? It doesn’t have to be all A+, B or B- will do this year.

‘We all have to settle for less this year, but less is still better than nothing. If we settle for nothing this year, then we have missed something’. Jerry Jones

Our conversation, also reminded me of some interesting research that came out of The Change Lab about employee wellbeing during Covid-19. I think, sometimes we have been lead to believe that if we are struggling we can’t be happy or thrive in life.,

But, research has found that struggle is an important part of the human condition and we can ‘live well despite struggle’. I am sure expats the world over can relate to that right now.

So double down. Manage the struggle and look for the joy, it’s a good recipe for creating a thriving life.

NB – the research also found there was a portion of the population, 7.5%, who were really struggling. These are tough times, and as Daniella Tomer said in her conversation with me in Episode 9 of the Thriving Abroad Together Series, many people could do with a little extra support right now. If you are feeling this way, listen to her episode and also the most recent Episode 58 with Dr Bonnie Wims. Both can help and support virtually, contact information is on the associated blog posts.

In this episode we talk about:

* Jerry, his work and upcoming move, China to Malta – we wish you all the best Jerry.* Jerry’s observations of the international communities reaction to the pandemic.* The impact of culture on the response to the pandemic.* Strategies for moving forward.* How parents can support their kids through sadness, loss and grief?* Creating a Strong Finish to 2020.* You can download the SHOW NOTES for today’s episode HERE

About Jerry Jones:

Jerry is a cross cultural trainer, coach and transition specialist who works with individuals and organisations to make their life abroad better. He also writes and builds resources for the globally mobile community. He first moved to China with his family in 2006 and is currently preparing to relocate to Malta.

Access his blog The Culture Blend HERE

Learn more about Coaching with Jerry and Strong Finish Course 2020 for International Schools HERE

Read his great blog post: ‘Yeah, but you’re not Black’ How does a White father from the United States, raising his Black son in China talk about the news this week?