I am writing this having been self-isolating for 5 days so far. I must admit that I am fascinated at what is happening around the world. I recognize the severity of it all. But I also see beautiful things happening too. People are coming together in ways they may not have if we weren’t forced into this position. Knowing that we are all in this together eases some of the pain.
We are all affected.
Fear and uncertainty are running rampant. Rightfully so.
People are being asked to work from home. For some that is a dream come true. For others, it is totally out of their comfort zone. They have to quickly learn new technology, figure out a new workflow, and are missing out on the connection they get from being with their colleagues.
And then there are businesses. Even though, here in Canada, we had advanced warning of what was to come, many of us didn’t prepare in advance. Understandably so, we didn’t really know how to prepare.
This is uncharted territory.
But many businesses are scrambling to figure out how to keep their businesses afloat in the months to come.
Some have been forced to shut down. Others had to implement systems quickly to have their employees work remotely costing thousands in new equipment. And others have noticed a sharp decline in sales.
And as we all navigate this, I want to keep reminding you that we are in this together. All of us are affected in one way or another.
As a community we are always stronger. And as a small business owner, I get it. I am right there with you. I vacillate between feeling strong, grounded and ready to get through this to paralyzed by fear.
But as we isolate inside our homes, let’s not isolate from our community:
Reach out to your network for support.
Collaborate with similar businesses to leverage each others’ audiences or create opportunities.
Lead. As others are trying to navigate this, they need leadership. People who will step up to help them get through this.
Be prepared to pivot. Whether you have been considering becoming an online entrepreneur or making a change to what you offer, now is as good time as any.
Look for opportunities. They are out there.
We are in this together.
Reach out if you need help.