𝗬𝗲𝘀, 𝗖𝗢𝗩𝗜𝗗-𝟭𝟵 𝗶𝘀 𝘂𝗻𝗽𝗿𝗲𝗰𝗲𝗱𝗲𝗻𝘁𝗲𝗱. But most of us aren’t responsible for professionally managing COVID-19 (other than following the recommendations we’re being asked to as individuals and families). Those of us in leadership positions are facing either an unexpected crisis or a temporary shift in the environment within which we work. Neither of these situations is terribly unusual, so stay calm and follow your instincts. Here are 5 simple ways to adapt and stay focused while the world adjusts to COVID-19.

1. 1. Take a step back and breath.
If you find your thinking clouded by anxiety, uncertainty, or ongoing
distraction, take a (solo) walk or close your eyes and meditate for
15 minutes. Consider signing up for a free trial of an app like
Headspace or Insight Timer. I prefer Insight Timer, but Headspace
offers decent training wheels for those who have never meditated.

2. Start high-level with what it is you’re trying to achieve and work
backwards until you can articulate what it is you and your team
should be doing on a day-by-day basis. Don’t assume everyone takes
for granted this is business as usual.
Everyone is asking themselves the same question: How does this
change things?
2. Sketch out a short-term strategic plan.

3. Ask for ideas and suggestions even if you think you’ve got a handle
on your plan and your team. Make them part of the solution, and
they’ll be far less likely to become obstacles. Giving your team an
opportunity for buy-in will also help them stay focusing despite all
the unusual distractions.
3. Gather input and build consensus.

4. Whether or not your team is working remotely, communicate more
frequently than you were a few weeks ago (keeping appropriate
physical distance, of course). If your team is working remotely,
you’re losing the casual oversight and reinforcement that comes
from working nearby others who are focused on the same goals.
Simply checking in more often than usual can make a significant
impact. Try a mandatory morning round-up call.
4. Communicate frequently.

5. Accomplish something.
Impress yourself.
Impress your team.
Build some momentum andyou’ll find others will work to keepup.
5. Thrive.

6. Don’t hesitate to reach out if there’s
any way I can be of service!
chris@servewithcourage.com
https://www.linkedin.com/in/chrisptak
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