I was asked a strange question last week:
"What have you learned from the COVID-19 crisis that will change you in the future?"
I was stumped.
I have been operating in "What do we need to do today to prepare for tomorrow?" mode for the last few weeks. It seems every few days there are changes to what we are doing and how we are doing it, or how long we are doing it for! Instead of reflection, we are spending time preparing for the next restriction, the next news cycle and the next guideline to come.
But it might be time to start thinking about how this crisis will change us...for the better.
At the surface, it seems most of us have learned a few things at home:
1. Every household now has it's own hairdresser!
In my house, that is me! I've managed to cut some pretty decent bangs for my daughter, and that bald spot that I gave my son has grown in now! (Plus it was in the back and he never noticed! Don't tell!)
2. The sewing machine still works, after years in the closet!
I busted mine out to sew masks a couple weeks ago, and even found material around the house to make them out of. Chris is down a couple shirts now, but the masks look pretty good! Not only that, my kids now know how to sew a straight line, pin fabric together and the importance of ironing as you go. The sewing machine may last another generation!
3. Zoom is good for more than just work!
We had a fun "concert" on Saturday on Zoom for family. The kids played their instruments and sang for a small Zoom audience. It was a new thing, that we might just continue!
Our work lives have changed dramatically too.
Here's what I have appreciated about the way our work has changed in this crisis:
1. There is a high need to rely on the expertise of others.
We've always known that collaboration is important. This crisis and ensuing demand for distance learning has showed that when we rely on each other, the load is lightened!
We quickly learn who has strengths in different areas, and can learn from each other, across curriculum lines!
2. Our time is valuable. Our families are valuable. There needs to be balance between these.
I have learned to stop reading emails at a certain time of the night and be more structured in what hours I work, as I weigh how they will affect others in the home.
I remember why it is so important to eat dinner as a family! The time connecting with my kids, my husband and my in-laws (yes, we all live under one roof) has been so nice.
3. Virtual meetings save time.
I have to admit, I am a fan of virtual meetings. While I seem to be in more meetings now then ever, the format lends itself to quick transitions and less down time, which I appreciate.
So, the question stands: How will this change me? I'm still not sure. However, there are a few new habits that I hope stick with me for a while.
I want to remember -
to always value time with family and make it a priority, limiting interruptions to quality time,
to see the strengths in others and learn from them...all the time,
to use online resources and platforms to work smarter, engage more people, and limit time necessary to meet.
What about you? How will the COVID-19 crisis change the way you work in the future?
I'd love to hear your thoughts. I'm sure I can learn great things from your reflection, too!
Stay strong.
Be well.
Kim
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