Have you ever had an experience that has been seared into your memory? For example, I remember where I was on January 29, 1986, when the Challenger exploded, and when the World Trade Center was attacked on September 11, 2001.
During my life, I’ve also had several significant personal experiences seared into my memory. For instance, the day I was diagnosed with cancer. When I think about that day, it seems as if it was only yesterday my husband and I were sitting in the office, waiting for my results.
Well, on March 13, 2020, my world changed again. As COVID-19 became a household word, Florida schools were closed for two weeks. My district was on spring break, and my husband and I were on vacation. Unfortunately, we found ourselves spending our time in our room because everything was starting to shut down…
My first thoughts and hopes were we would be back to normal by March 30th. As I sat in our room, I began to realize the impact COVID-19 would have on my life. But little did I know this was only the beginning of my journey.
On March 17, 2020, the governor closed schools until April 15th. Overnight working remotely became my new way of work. On April 18th, the decision was announced to continue distance learning until the end of the school year. Now, I have worked remotely during my career as an adjunct professor and leadership consultant.
Although working remotely is not a new experience for me, technology advances have dramatically changed the process. I am spending most of my day on numerous video conferencing calls. In between video conference calls, I am either responding to emails or talking on my phone.
Over the last four weeks, I have adjusted my daily routines. During the first couple of weeks, I was spending hours sitting in my home office working. By the end of the day, I was exhausted and cranky!
To improve my disposition and health, I have implemented a schedule which includes taking breaks, standing, and exercising. When leading and coaching my team, I always start and end by checking on their emotional well-being.
COVID-19 and the shut-down have forced me to reflect on my priorities. I miss the days when I could walk down the hall and chat with my colleagues. I long for the opportunity to hug a friend and to attend worship service at our church.
Yes, our world has changed. While the way we work has changed, it has also allowed us to grow. During this challenging time, I have added numerous new tools to my toolbox, and I’m proud to say working remotely has helped me grow as a leader. During the forthcoming weeks,’ I’ll be sharing lessons I’ve learned by working remotely you may find beneficial.
“Challenges are gifts that force us to search for a new center of gravity. Don’t fight them. Just find a new way to stand.”
Oprah Winfrey
Stay safe and take care of yourself and your family!
#YourLeadershipGuide
Kim
Click HERE to register for my free, live, 60-minute “Remote Work Master Class” on June 13th.
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