More than just talk

By Linda Jovanovich
HMA Executive Vice President

As we begin month seven of the pandemic, it’s clear that longing to ‘get back’ to normal is an exercise in futility. Like it or not, change has been forced upon us all. There is no going ‘back.’ There’s only, ‘what’s next?’ So, how do we morph a world-changing pandemic into an opportunity?

In an article entitled, “6 Strategies for Shaping your Post-Pandemic Future,” global futurist, Robert Tucker, offered insight that I found to be on-target and encouraging.

• “Strategic thinking is about consciously shifting focus; going from ‘fire-fighting’ to fire-starting; considering how the world is changing and will evolve during the next year, three years and five. It’s about opening up to new possibilities, new business models, new products and customer solutions.
• You’ve been focused on keeping your people safe, and your supply lines humming. But now it’s time to ask: what’s next? This is the perfect time to think about your strategy. Where you are; where you want to be; and assessing the realistic chances of getting from here to there.”

I like the way Tucker thinks. He’s positive: he’s a ‘doer;’ and his article, “6 Strategies for Shaping your Post-Pandemic Future” encourages us all to be the same. This issue of The Link includes a synopsis of the article. I encourage you to read it. As we all move from “crisis management” to “what’s next,” I think you’ll find the information helpful.

On a lighter note, I’ll close by sharing a quote from stage, screen and television star, Alan Alda – yes of M*A*S*H fame. He’s 84 years old, now; living with the struggles of Parkinson’s Disease, yet still feisty and vibrant. What’s his message? “Trust in Science; Keep the Faith and Laugh more!” Amen to that! Take good care.