This quote from Annie, that little precocious and very optimistic young girl, is one of two certainties we know we can count on. The second is that we are not in this alone in facing the Coronavirus challenge, even though we feel this way with extreme social distancing. We must keep these two truths in front of our minds and remind others we interact with the same.
Earlier this week I wrote about Temporary Permanence and the Coronavirus (https://bit.ly/3aaTxLm). It is a paradox that perfectly explains the situation we now face. It has a sense of permanence, but it is only temporary (in the scheme of things). Covid-19 is a real threat that is disrupting our lives in very real ways. New normals are being thrust upon us not just days apart, but now hours apart. However, this will not last forever. Yet, we must learn to adjust and adapt quickly to ensure our well-being. This is uncharted territory for us and our governments in a multitude of ways. We are all struggling to understand, learn and determine what to do. We are all in this together.
Like all of you, I am and frequently get rattled, distracted, and frustrated. I want answers that are precisely certain right now! The fact is these simply do not exist. Truthfully, they have not existed in our world for a while despite what we may have thought. The sooner we accept this reality the better we will be. Still, the sun will come out tomorrow.
Knowing this, we should/need to focus on what we can control. That is us and how we interact with others whether they be family, neighbors, friends, co-workers, and/or customers. What was important before COVID-19, is important now, and will be important once we are past this threat (and onto the next).
We need to remember and remind ourselves of the values and principles we hold dear. Despite the circumstances, we need to remain true to them now and become and stay prepared, ready, and able to be true to them tomorrow. Yes, today demands virtually all our attention and effort. However, we need to be careful not to be too shortsighted. If we are, we may be putting our future at risk. Remember, the sun will come out tomorrow.
This is a truly difficult time, that goes without saying. It is hard to think beyond the next few days, weeks, and months, but we must. Why? Because the sun will come out tomorrow.
I have a challenge for each of you: Become a Present Futurist!
Yes, this is another paradox. It is indicative of the many tensions we must manage. What does this mean? It means you need to be fully present and aware of today and simultaneously think about, prepare and plan for the future. I am not advocating that you stick your head in the sand in the least. I am advocating that at least for a short amount of time, say 30 minutes a day, that you become a Present Futurist. During this time, think about and picture that sunny tomorrow and envision your future.
Challenge yourself to consider what you need to do to become and stay prepared, ready, and able to successfully act in this future. What insights and ideas come to mind? Write these down. Use them to inform and guide your choices and decisions today.
I remind you of the two certainties mentioned at the beginning. The sun will come out tomorrow and we are not in this alone. I invite and urge you to do two things to help each other:
1. Share your insights and ideas. What you share, can help and may make a major difference for others.
2. Share your biggest challenges so I and others can help you by offering our ideas, asking questions to help you come up with your own, and being a sounding board for you.
If you are interested in learning more click on Schedule Your Discovery Session at the top to request your 1-hour complimentary video discovery call. I am here to help today so you get ready for tomorrow. Stay well. Take care of your family. Be strong.