Assessing Impact Using 6 Dimensions of Grief

In our current climate, while many are finding ways to thrive and make the most of it, we are also feeling individual and collective grief in a way that we have not in the past. We recognize that the world has changed; and it’s difficult to escape the reality of living in it. The loss of normalcy; the fear of economic toll; the loss of connection. We are being hit from a variety of angles, and a type of grief is manifesting that many of us have seldom, if ever, experienced. It’s in the air. It’s on our televisions and phones. It’s in every inquiry made by our children, who can no longer be in traditional community with friends. It’s in every phone call that ends with, “…when it’s safe.”

With the uncertainty we all feel, anticipatory grief is something that has shown up for most of us—fear that a storm is coming. That something bad is about to happen. That we are losing control. Looming political elections, public outcries against police brutality, COVID-19. We’re feeling that loss of safety that was connected to our roles, affiliations, physical, mental, and emotional well-being; our autonomy; our dreams and expectations. These examples, and more, impact how we view the world, as well as the people and institutions in it—including our co-workers and workplaces. Taking the time to name and honor this truth can make it possible for us to also name and honor how we can care for ourselves and one another. Further, it can provide a valuable resource to leaders who are committed to leveraging the voices of their team members as way to make meaningful and sustainable change.