Flexibility has always been central to Pivot’s culture. Our adaptability has enabled us to thrive even when our team members are oceans apart. So, you can imagine my surprise to discover how deeply my team and I have been impacted by COVID-19.
At first glance, adjusting to the quarantine should be a simple step for a nimble team like ours. Since it’s inception, Pivot has encouraged working from home. But the truth is, more has changed than the location of our workspaces. Universally, we are suddenly facing emotional highs and lows that we are unaccustomed to experiencing.
At the same time, many of us are taking on new responsibilities. As a mother of two young children, I can speak personally about how difficult it has been to find the time to write, to think, or just to take calls while also keeping track of my kids’ education. My days are starting earlier and ending later as I find myself working before my kids get up and long after they get to bed in order to keep up with my to-do list. Suffice it to say, it’s been harder than ever to stay energized and positive.
Odds are, you’re dealing with a challenge like this, too. Whether it’s parenting concerns, financial concerns, health concerns (both mental and physical), or just the challenge of isolation, all of us are facing unprecedented circumstances. We aren’t always going to measure up to the normal standards we’ve set for ourselves.
In this difficult time, I’m encouraging everyone to grant grace not only to their friends and colleagues, but also to themselves. With so many problems to confront, the last thing we need to be is hard on ourselves or each other.
For me, grace has meant giving myself and others time for self care. Early this month, I got unusually sick for the better part of a week. Initially, when I tried to force myself to work through the fatigue, I only made my symptoms worse. By allowing myself to rest, I got back to normal much faster.
The same approach has proven itself with my team. Encouraging stressed employees to take time for themselves is a much better approach than adding pressure to their lives.
This time is going to be filled with ups and downs – sometimes all in one day. As we all ride this coronavirus roller coaster together, give yourself and others grace to ride it out – whether you are at the top or falling into the deep unknown.
If there’s anything my team and I can do to help make your ride smoother, please don’t hesitate to reach out.
Stacia Nelson
(612) 978-8600
stacia@pivotstrategiesconsulting.com
