No one can or should tell you who or how to be at this moment and many of us lack the experience of working during such a time of personal and economic crisis. There is plenty of unsolicited advice on how to be and how not to be right now and it pains our Association to have been approached by several members and peers expressing their frustrations about how some detractors and contrarian thinkers are triggering waves of negativity in an already tough situation.
All of our members, across each stakeholder group, have expressed the need for flexibility, patience and compassion while we navigate this global crisis. It is important to remember that we are all just trying to do our best.
We humbly offer a few things to take into consideration over the coming days
- Scarcity mentality increases stress levels and cortisol – know this and understand the connection between thoughts and your physical health. Basically, it’s unhealthy to focus on the notion that there is not enough – food, business, time, money etc.
- Mocking and publicly shaming brands while they are clearly struggling to course correct does not make you look smarter or like you are more organized – it makes you look like you are unable to pick up the phone and be a helpful peer.
- It’s a small world and you may need each other for random reasons when the dust settles – it’s not the time to burn bridges.
- If you are unable to compliment, “like” or help –we advise you to say nothing. Be reminded of the saying “if you have nothing nice to say, say nothing at all”.
What you do in the coming weeks will help define who you are as a leader, a parent, family member and friend.
Be kind and stay well.