NACCE's Response to COVID-19
I think we can all agree that the NACCE community is one of innovation, creativity, and drive. Ironically, we could argue that COVID-19 is all of those things as well – it certainly features new methods, is both advanced and original, it seems to be resourceful, and (even though it seems to lack a logical direction) it’s picking up speed. That said, we’d like to choose to look at our experience with this pandemic entrepreneurially. In no way do we intend to be insensitive to those who experience loss or suffering as a result of COVID-19, but we believe it would be a mistake not to learn from what we are exposed to.
Be Innovative
While the world around you seems to focus on social distancing, think about ways to bring your students/faculty/family/friends together with technology. Instead of looking at your calendar with disappointment over what’s been cancelled, examine the ways in which you might participate in the same activities virtually. How we respond to the situation at hand will force the development of tools that have the power to shape the future of meetings and professional experiences. Remember that social distancing doesn’t have to mean self-isolation. Let’s take this opportunity to encourage the next big thing.
Tap Into Your Creativity.
We are largely a society that thrives on busyness, so don’t be afraid to use this time of “forced separation” to slow your pace a bit and re-engage your right brain thinking. Make the time to brainstorm, explore your bright ideas or to develop new ways to reach your learners. When your list starts to dwindle, fight cabin fever by reading the latest edition of NACCE’s journal or one of our books. Find a new podcast or webinar series. Watch a movie that might spark some new ideas. Nataliia Berehzna, NACCE’s project manager for operations, suggests 18 Movies Every Entrepreneur Should Watch, and while we’re at it, we’d like to add JOY, The Social Network, and The Wolf of Wall Street to that list! If you’re a documentary fan, we highly recommend Something Ventured, a 2011 documentary that investigates American venture capitalism in the mid-20th century. We’re not suggesting that our members won’t have anything to do, but we do hope that you’ll take that time you would normally spend commuting and find a way to get back into a rhythm that encourages balanced thought.
Take Initiative.
The only thing you can control when it seems like the world is falling down around you is how you react to it. Take a leadership role in not only protecting yourself and others, but in keeping the peace. Be the one who suggests a great alternative to an at-risk situation. Let your team know that they are a priority, and empower them to execute in a new environment. Some of us have yet to see a case of the virus while some of us are living in a containment area where quarantine is the new normal. Wash your hands, avoid crowds, drink plenty of water, get enough sleep, and leverage the internet for good. Spend your time online on education instead of tracking tragedy. Set the tone for your family and friends. The British were on to something when they suggested we all “Keep Calm and Carry On…”.
We wish you health and wellness, and encourage you to embrace the entrepreneurial mindset and take this opportunity to make lemonade. We’ll be with you each step of the way.
NACCE is interested in how the coronavirus pandemic is affecting your work and your community. Take a few minutes and let us know how things are going by taking this quick survey.