During the 2008 recession, I read an interview about a local businessman; the CEO of a company that was the fourth largest developer of shopping centers in the United States. At the time, his company was facing major financial challenges. When asked if he was hopeful about the outcome, he replied: “ Hope is not a strategy.”
His plan was to reassess the company’s goals, evaluate the facts, and take action as needed. In three years, his company would change dramatically: he would become the CEO of another company, and his former company would move forward under different leadership.
Today, we all face many personal and professional challenges. Though hope is important, identifying our best strategies is key.
HOPE
Hope is defined as optimism about a future event. It’s “a match in a dark tunnel.” Hope can make present difficulties easier to bear and be a strong motivator for success. Children who grew up in poverty and later achieved success shared a common trait: hope.
We can support others to have hope by listening, showing appreciation and acceptance, offering perspective, focusing on strengths and what’s possible, and sharing our own struggles and successes. Who hasn’t been inspired by stories of those who ‘ve overcome challenges?
STRATEGIES
- Have a Vision; Set an Intention
During normal times, we set intentions all the time: how much money we want to make, weight we want to lose, conflicts we want to resolve. Setting an intention helps us move forward.
Today is no different. Whether it’s for a month or longer, decide what you want to come of this time. For example, because of the high demand for virtual training, one of my goals is to learn all I can about facilitating webinars.
- Be Aware
Two weeks ago my yoga teacher made the move to teach her classes online. Though she is an excellent teacher, this was not an easy decision, as was reflected in her invitation:
Posting on Social Media and online teaching is way out of my comfort zone. I’ve waited and waited for the confidence and the courage to come. They didn’t. I just kept waiting. So, here we are. The time we’re living in is forcing us to transform and evolve …. It’s inviting a new way of relating to each other. There is no other option. If I want to connect with you and offer the world the unique gifts I have, then I have to rise to the occasion and get online NOW.
What assumptions have you made about your limits, comfort zones, or what you’re capable of? Now is the time to become aware of self-imposed limitations.
- Be Curious
Since mid-March, we’ve all had personal and professional opportunities vanish. Yet, once we move past initial disappointments, angers, or fears, what’s next?
Notice who’s rising to the occasion: perfume, t-shirt , computer, and car companies are now making face masks, ventilators, and hand wipes; fitness and educational facilities are offering classes online; tele therapy and video consults are providing personal and professional support, and many businesses are offering curbside pickup.
While you probably don’t need to reinvent yourself, identify activities or projects you’ve been wanting to try or finish; discover new ways to promote or network; focus on strengthening one of your skills sets – in my case, my technical skills.
- Take Action
Put ideas into action. Some ideas can be implemented right away while others need to wait until we’ve relaxed social distancing.
Update your resume, bio, or website to reflect new skills or offerings; hire a coach to help you learn and manage new business approaches; purchase gadgets to better navigate working online; increase networking by attending online networking events or by reaching out; others are more likely to be available now. I’ve noticed that practicing video conferencing with acquaintances, colleagues, and friends has a bonus; it’s strengthening my relationships!
These are challenging times, and it’s inspiring to see all the creative and innovative responses. While hope is a great place to be, identifying and building on your key strategies Is what will help you to succeed.