In these teleworking, sheltering in place, social distancing, COVID-19 days, we need to move past crisis mode – if possible – and into a new kind of normal. NOTE: this does not apply do those of you in the medical field who DO need to treat each day like a crisis. We all greatly appreciate all the sacrifices you are making for our collective health.
And, I know that some businesses and nonprofits are scrambling to stay alive; so a new normal may take much longer for you.
But, many of us can start moving past the “tyranny of the urgent.” Not to be too presumptuous, but here are some thoughts to consider on what our priorities should be moving forward.
*Create Your New Normal. Soon, we have to stop treating each day like this is a crisis – we need to look at the longer term. Those of us – who don’t work in an emergency room – have to stop acting like it as soon as we can. We need to find a “new normal” and focus as much as possible on, as Stephen Covey says, what is Important, Not Urgent. Finding a “new normal” is my Big Rock for the week.
*Health and Well-Being of Friends and Loved Ones. You are probably thinking about this, but it needs to remain top of mind. We need reach out to those we care about – especially those who live alone and are older – to make sure they are staying connected. And we need to nurture those we are living with.
*Health and Well-Being of our Work Teams. You and your work team also need to find a new normal. While work is important, making sure that they are taking care of their health and well-being has to be the #1 priority.
*Health and Well-Being of Ourselves. Create new routines that support your health and well-being. This is the time to try mindful meditation if you have been considering it. Make sure you are getting some kind of physical activity regularly; research shows this is the best thing you can do for the health of your brain, as well as the rest of your body. Get outside (but stay away from people!). And get your sleep.
*Communicate, Communicate, Communicate. This is important for your personal relationships as well as your work relationships. Continue to be transparent and build trust. We need it now more than ever.
It is a new world for all of us and each person had different challenges in this environment. Let’s take care of ourselves and one another as we move to our new normal.
