Greetings Everyone! We find ourselves in very strange times indeed. Over the past several weeks, I've repeatedly heard the phrase that "life is cancelled for a while". Life for all of us indeed is very different than what it was just a month ago. But as we travel through this unfamiliar territory, we, like explorers of the past, are discovering new and interesting things. Life is still very real and very present, and as we are navigating through this alternate universe, we must see and grasp the new opportunities and realizations that we encounter.
Up until now many of us were able to skirt around the technologies that made us uncomfortable with their ever-changing features and specifications. Due to COVID-19 restrictions, we have been forced into utilizing those technologies if we intend to continue staying engaged with the business community and/or drawing a paycheck. Now, like never before, we have to step up to the challenge of conquering our fears or intimidation of using technology. The great thing about this is that most of us non-techie people are learning together and so we are more forgiving when others make mistakes or break the etiquette protocol typically expected. I have heard from many of my clients that they are certain this crisis will forever change the way that business is conducted. There will be new opportunities never thought of until the necessity of thinking outside the box forced us out of our comfort zones and into survival mode. In the meantime, most of us are on the same learning curve and this is a once in a lifetime opportunity to learn in a virtual classroom of peers.
I encourage you to explore the technologies that will keep you connected and that will keep you plugged into your loved ones and your job. Be careful to use the available security protocols. If you're like me, you are being flooded with so many COVID-19 alerts and suggestions that you may be tempted to just hit delete every time you see the word. I urge you to give attention to the ones from your software providers. As this crisis drags on, unfortunately there are those who will take advantage of systems vulnerabilities, and they are looking to exploit those who are not taking the proper precautions in their online presence.
I hope that you and your loved ones will stay safe and healthy during this pandemic. Grab opportunities to learn new things; catch up on those things that were in the "Need to do but not Urgent" basket. Create, capture, and enjoy precious moments with your families. Keep in mind that life is not cancelled! Just like in normal times, every day is what you make of it.
Cynthia Alloway is the president of Common Sense Business Solutions, Inc., a leading business coaching firm that assists small and medium sized business owners in solving business problems, growing their companies, and transitioning their legacy to the next generation. Cynthia is a QuickBooks Pro Advisor and has a wealth of experience in serving clients in the Southeast. Learn more at http://www.commonsensebizsolutions.com/president-bio/.