“Life is not what happens to us, but how we respond to it.” – Epictetus
A Morning in Istanbul: The Crushing Moments of Life
Almost 21 years ago, November 20, 2003, Istanbul. The city was bustling as usual. People were rushing to get to work, the streets were filled with the sound of horns and rushing crowds. People passing by the HSBC building in Levent were experiencing the typical morning rush of a financial center. No one knew that in a few minutes their lives would change forever.
At 10:55, a speeding truck crashed into the building’s entrance. A second of silence… Then a deafening explosion. The windows shattered, the building shook, people were thrown. This explosion, felt even a few kilometers away, deeply wounded not only the building but also the soul of Istanbul. Before the city could recover from this shock, a second explosion occurred six minutes later at the British Consulate General in Beyoğlu. Another bomb, another destruction, another loss…
Sometimes life turns upside down in an instant. Just like that day in Istanbul. Major disasters shake individuals and societies, causing us to question our daily routines, our plans, and even our identity.
However, that day, just a few hours before, I had passed in front of the HSBC building in Levent. When the explosion occurred, I thought it was an earthquake, but when I saw the building burning from a distance, I realized that this was a completely different disaster. Then another explosion, even though it was kilometers away, the explosions had the effect of an earthquake, the windows of the building we were in were shaking from the force of the explosion. It was not possible to focus on work that day and the days that followed, nor to continue normal life as if nothing had happened…
So, how do we continue in times like these? How can we focus on our work when we are experiencing great pain? How can we stay strong while fulfilling our responsibilities without getting lost in daily life ?
Today, we are once again experiencing great pain, both individually and collectively. How can we move forward in the shadow of grief and uncertainty? How can we focus on our work? How can our minds and souls resist?
I wanted this article to be a guide for us to navigate through grief and uncertainty. Because no matter how hard it is, moving on is a choice. And sometimes, even the smallest steps can help us get back on track with life.
Where Should We Start?
1. Accept: Allow the Stages of Grief
When a great loss occurs, the perception in our brain changes and we have difficulty focusing. First, we need to accept this. If you feel exhausted, scattered or empty, this is normal. Give yourself time. Grief is not an enemy, it is the door to healing.
2. Set Small, Realistic Goals
To climb a mountain, you must first take the first step. Instead of focusing on big goals, set small but meaningful tasks. For example:
“I'm just going to organize my emails today.”
“I will do a 30-minute focused workout.”
“I will talk to a colleague about a small project.”
The brain perceives each small task completed as a victory, creating a feeling of progress.
3. Harness the Power of Routines
Routines are the ultimate savior in times of uncertainty. Getting up at the same time every morning, preparing a simple breakfast, and creating specific work hours throughout the day can help you regain a sense of control.
4. Be Kind to Yourself and Give Your Emotions Space
When times are tough, instead of pressing thoughts like, “I have to do this,” try, “I am doing the best I can today.” Our brains, like our bodies, need time to heal.
5. Don't Cut Connections with Your Friends
The thing that isolates us the most is to withdraw emotionally. Talk to someone you trust, share your troubles with a colleague, have a coffee with a friend. People heal when they share.
6. Control the process of receiving news
Constantly following the news can subconsciously increase feelings of burnout. Reducing the flow of information to certain hours is spiritually relaxing.
7. Helping Makes You Feel Powerful
Supporting others is not only good for society, but also for the individual. A small donation, a supportive message written to someone, helping someone in need... It all makes us stronger.
It is not easy to know how to return to our work and our lives in difficult times. However, the important thing is not to be perfect, but to keep going.
What will your journey be like?
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