Other thoughts to entertain during the global pandemic of COVID-19

While we, as a culture, are reorganizing our priorities of health, family, work, and pleasure, I believe we are in the greatest days of rejuvenation and regeneration. Our hearts ache for those impacted by this virus both physically and financially. Yet, we have much for which to be thankful.

Growing up during the 70s, life was simple and freeing. Family, work, and faith were the focus and norm. We ate dinner when the sun went down. Momma made the best meals and I was never late to the table. My parents worked hard for every dollar and we did not waste. Family television series were a nationwide pastime...and those cliffhangers were so fun. One had to wait till next week to see the end of that series. There was togetherness. Less was more. Since then, I matured, ran several companies, kept up with the Joneses (ha) and kept my children super busy with school and sport. We enjoyed prosperity and lost sight of the simple pleasures, which money cannot buy.

During this time of quarantine, we have had all meals together, talked, kept in touch with friends and loved one’s in creative ways. By the way, love how my high school senior is working through this time and the fun they are having from a distance during a critical teen year. The love we have for each other has grown more and appreciation for what we have, had, and the hope of what is to come. Yes, we have had losses. Our saving grace has been our friend’s love and support and good employers. We are holding each other up during these days.  Including, knowing who your true friends are in these times.

Aside from this, while most employers are focusing on the horrible negative financial losses, a different focus needs to come to the forefront. This temporary lull, while a few more weeks, should be a time to be extraordinarily creative in making a serious comeback. Analysis of product / services and target market should lite a fire under one's seat. Working on advertising and marketing, new product line supplies, expanding and perfecting services better than anyone, is ideal. Going back to the sweet basics of true customer service and pure joy of small business ownership, places exhilarating confidence back into our communities. Our neighbors, community stores, and whole benefit. In addition, I greatly applaud those business owners, who made it possible for their employees to keep receiving a paycheck to keep their homes and food on the table. My heart aches for those who lost loved ones, lost homes, jobs, and businesses.

Parting thoughts...remember your neighbor and hit the pavement running!