During this unprecedented time, we are constantly overwhelmed with all of the negatives of COVID-19. This is an opportunity for more sharing, more collaboration and less concern about competition with each other.
As planners, our focus has always been to bring people together. Why change this now?
So much sharing of resources and knowledge is already happening! We are eagerly willing to pass along our force majeure clauses, sales techniques, financial strategies, etc. On a personal level, we support one another by offering a safe place to commiserate, to listen, and to celebrate each and every success, even virtually.
There is no manual to guide us through what we’re facing, so in a sense, it’s uncharted territory for all of us. More than ever before, it’s important for us to pool our resources and our unique areas of expertise in order to innovate, which will allow us to evolve. We are back to ground zero, not even a new normal. Who knows what will happen 3 to 6 months from now. We’re dealing in the short-term, while looking hopefully to the future, but also just trying to survive in the meantime.
The Big Reset
The good news is that our reset will set a precedent for our industry. By collaborating, we can update our contracts, build contingency and pivot plans, develop cash flow strategies, etc. This is the perfect opportunity for us to rejuvenate, rebuild, and rely on our community. It’s time to focus on our strengths, ourselves, and our businesses by finding an active planner group on social media or by joining an industry association, a place where you can both garner support and contribute in return. In these virtual communities, you have to be willing to share and participate. Just like anything, you get what you put in! We encourage you to even overshare...there is nothing to lose but a plethora to potentially gain.
Check out who is on “The Tribe List” of our favorite resources and groups. They are truly supporting one another for the greater good of humanity.
Fear will happen. Anxiety will happen. You cannot get through something like this without community. We commiserate. We learn from each other. We will get through it together. Now is the time to check in on your friends, colleagues, and industry partners and be sure to ask for help when you need it. Remember, “We’re Stronger Together!
To learn more about MPI's Independent Small Business Owners (ISBO) Community go here, get in on the convo by checking out the forum or checking out its Covid Response Webinar Series. And, a special shout-out to Happily, MPI's ISBO sponsor.
The series “An Independent Perspective” returns next month with a look at what survival and our new normal looks like and where we go from here.
