"Normally" is out the window
I am truly saddened to be writing this post this month.
I know there has been so much written on how to stay safe and healthy, follow government advice, and what to do when working at home. I simply want to start by focusing on how to stay human during this extremely difficult time.
And I want to also send you my heartfelt virtual hug for whatever you are going through now and in the weeks, and likely, months to come.
I always loved the month of March, with the excitement of NCAA March Madness and the winter March break taking us south for wonderful family vacation. Normally I’d be writing about all of this and my tips on the importance of taking vacation and spending time socializing when picking best College basketball teams to win this year.
Normally, is completely out the window and this March 2020 we were all hit by something completely unexpected, a crisis unforeseen by many, though predicted by a few so I’ve been told.
So how can we stay more human in this unprecedented time? We can start by being kind, being brave, seeking advice and of course staying well.
be kind photo from Unsplash
Be Kind
First, be kind to yourself.
It’s okay to be sad. It’s okay to be shocked. It’s okay to be numb, or lost.
Feel what you need to feel, then give yourself a hug and figure out what action needs to be taken.
As leaders in particular, you’re so busy taking care of business and making tough decisions, you forget to pause and give yourself a break.
You are human too; take care of yourself first so you can be there for others.
Second, be kind to others.
Your team and colleagues and family need you to be the best you can be. Be that leader.
Regardless of the difficult decisions you may need to make, they will respect you for the human you be.
Those of us with children at home will particularly need a lot of patience. Be kind to your littles.
Because we know they are going to drive us [insert any word you like here]!!!
Be kind to your puppies, and kitty cats and other animals. And if they are anything like our Joey and won’t stop barking asking for a treat since you’ve been away, remember they need us too.
I have already witnessed the client leaders I work with demonstrate empathy, kindness and humility as they address this current state of the world with their teams.
Be Brave but Stay Human
You are going to have to make some choices - personally or professionally.
As a leader you may have to cut salaries, or lay people off, or champion for government funds to stay afloat.
Be brave as you make these decisions, but stay human. People are the ones most impacted.
If at all possible try to cut costs without simply cutting jobs. I know it’s tough but be brave in your creativity.
I am aware of one CEO who has cut his salary by 100% and also donated his own funds to save his company and minimize the fallout for his people.
Be brave but stay human.
The brick and mortar you are housed in and the products you make don’t have feelings. People do.
Pivot if you can, be brave and know that you did the best you could.
This is when those sayings really do have meaning - they won’t remember the tough decisions you made but they will remember how you persevered to get them through this and how you treated them.
On a personal level many people are going to have to be brave during this time - for their children, their elderly parents, their friends and family and colleagues.
Figure out how you can take steps that are brave but stay human.
Seek Advice
Don’t feel you need to go it alone. Everyone needs help.
Especially during this most difficult of times. Rely on the experts.
Seek advice from those you respect, and those who you consider mentors.
If you need to obtain financial advice, or speak to your bank to reduce payments or seek governmental assistance, seek the advice and know you aren’t the only one. As a business or in your personal capacity.
Look for people that will support whatever needs you have.
For employers that offer Employee and Family Assistance Programs, make sure your people and leaders use them. This is the time.
There is always a friend or colleague or mentor willing to listen or help out. Don’t feel like this is weakness, it is a sign of strength.
Be Well
I am not going to spend a lot of time on being well at this time as this you can find everywhere. I will, however, continue to post some helpful resources in the future as we navigate this time together.
Please Stay Healthy.
Frankly, I had a hard time getting to this writing as I didn’t know what to say - it’s been a tough long few weeks for many. And “normally”, I have a lot to say.
I do wish that you, your teams and loved ones stay healthy and safe over the next few weeks/months so we can minimize the impact of this deadly virus.
Please Be Safe.
As you may know, Life Works Well has always been about creating healthy workplaces and cultures and my wish is that you navigate this with ease and grace and a positive attitude whatever the future holds.
Please Be Well.