Now about two years from the start of the pandemic limitations, worries, illness, deaths and general disruption, what have we learned from this episode--what can we take ahead with us for future disruption?
Futurists matter
Though all predictions for the future won't hold true, we do have to take the forecasts of futurists seriously and consider how we might prepare ourselves for what's to come. With futurists' research and predictions in mind, everyone has to make time for vision setting and building for a good future. That should be part of our efforts great and small.
Assess and acknowledge the struggle
When disruption and struggle hit, acknowlege that. It does no one any good to bury their heads in the sand and deny the obvious. Simply, say to yourself and your team, we've got a struggle ahead, own it and deal with it.
Prioritize
Times of struggle and disruption will upset life as we know it, and we won't be able to continue as usual. That's why we have to take time to prioritize. Identify what matters most and make sure the routine includes those actions.
Take it one step at a time
The pandemic has taught us that disruptive forces take on a life of their own. We can't always predict what will happen step by step, so we have to take it one step at a time, assess, revise as needed and then take the next step.
Respect and humanity matter
It's never worth giving up on what is humane and respectful, that is necessary particularly at times of struggle and disruption.
Learn, reset and revise
You learn a lot during times of struggle and disruption. Embrace the good, life enriching learning that occurs and bring it forward with you.
These are some pandemic lessons I've learned. Onward.