SEAMANSHIP and The Coronavirus
- Marty Schad
- Mar 19, 2020
- 2 min read
[An editor’s note…I don’t normally write about current events. I much prefer more consistent and timeless themes and ideas. However, this week, I felt that not writing about the Coronavirus would be “ignoring the elephant in the room”.] Coronavirus is “here”, worldwide. How should we think about the Coronavirus? Thinking about it from “The Process Perspective”, what are the best frames of mind and approaches available to us? “Often the boats are caught in rough seas or storms, the people may panic, and boats may sink. But even if one person aboard can remain calm, lucid, knowing what to do and what not to do, he or she can help the boat survive.” – Thich Nhat Hanh (talking about boats fleeing Vietnam during tumultuous times) Thich Nhat Hanh suggests we all need to be steady and calm captains. This makes complete sense during these turbulent times. Seamanship is vital and critical for us. We have to keep going through this storm, dealing with things as effectively as possible. This is much easier said than done. A helpful framework for good DAY-BY-DAY “seamanship” in this Coronavirus storm: “Win the day. There are many questions swirling right now... How long will this last? How will we manage? How will we recover? How worried should I be? Leave it be. Nobody knows the answers. Have the best day you can, today. Win the moment in front of you now. Win the day.” – James Clear (Twitter)
My main learning from this line of thinking is the ongoing need for preparation ahead of time, before the storm. Preparing ahead of time enables us to be ready (as ready as possible!) for anything. Motivated Process Builders understand this, and they are constantly “sharpening their saw” by preparation, advanced thinking, and “building in margin”.
CHALLENGE TO READERS
Please think about the current Coronavirus “storm”, both personally and professionally…
How can you be a steady captain of your “ship”? How can you help others be steady and effective captains during these challenging times?
How can you help your customers navigate these challenging times? Reach out to them, proactively. Put yourself in their shoes, and consider what they might need/appreciate.
I’d like to know what you think about “seamanship” during these turbulent times. What has been most helpful to you and your organization? Please know that we are here if you need us. We are eager and able to help. If you email us, we will get back to you promptly. Thanks!
All the Best,
Marty
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