We have been subjected to so many Covid tests, it is hard to put all of them in categories. And, I don’t mean getting that swab stuck up to my brain and down to my tonsils. Every day, Covid tests our leadership, our mindset and our health habits.
Leadership
For leaders, the immediate crisis of Covid was assessing risk and taking appropriate action. Next it was communicating clearly and consistently. Then listening. As many Vistage Members started telling me over and over again, this meant staying in a constant conversation with their teams as they moved to remote and/or distancing safely within buildings, at construction sites, while delivering goods, etc.
The company had to survive if there was going to be a place to work when Covid was over. Hard decisions had to be made and communicated. I have never forgotten how difficult it was to lay people off in my own company, and my Members will never forget the tough days they have had around making those decisions, either.
Mindset
This is where the rubber hits the road every day. We can choose our attitude. We’ve worked on this in Vistage as long as I have been a Vistage Member and then a Vistage Chair — almost 25 years. Grit, resilience, positivity. Taking care of your own mental well being so you can focus on the goals and help the people you lead focus on theirs.
Health
All of your good health and bad health habits have been highlighted by the pandemic. Eating well, getting exercise, watching your weight are all important. One cruel joke of the pandemic is the extra pounds many of us put on because we were within 15 feet of the kitchen. Me included. Plus the “it sucks” factors of diabetes, high blood pressure, asthma, etc.
As Covid hits a new round of community spread this week, let’s survive this together. Stay even further apart and don’t even think of taking your mask off. If you get Covid, let us know so we can help.
And thank the health care professionals, first responders, grocery store clerks, delivery people -everyone who helps you get through this. Perhaps, the biggest Covid test is to show appreciation. Let’s pass that test with flying colors.
You can print the Image courtesy of 510families.com.