March 25, 2020

The sun shines (also) on the other side

On a run (alone) in the woods the other morning, I came to one of my favorite places in Hellebæk, close to where I live. There's the most beautiful bridge over Kobberdammen, and the sun was rising so nicely on the other side. In this corona time, it made me realize that no matter what, the sun will also shine on the other side. The question is just how we choose to cross the bridge and in what way we get ready to enjoy the sun.

I believe that we should see the situation as a necessary “pit stop” where we reset a lot of things and should check the condition of “our car” and make sure it is tuned and ready when the “race” resumes.

Basically, I’m convinced that the needs and prerequisites for many of the products and solutions we have on the shelves will be the same as before.
The question is whether the way we communicate, deliver and organize ourselves has changed.
It certainly has!

You have to slow down to speed up

We need to slow down sometimes to get the big picture and make better and right decisions.
We have that opportunity now – yes, we are forced into it – so let’s use it to inspect all structures, systems and plans so that we come out stronger on the other side.

For many companies, it didn’t take much more than 24 hours to convert a lot of communication to digital solutions with Skype, Teams, Zoom, etc.
This proves that we have the ability to adapt, so let’s keep it up and make sure that we are inspired and innovate even more – even in a “normal everyday life” – so that it is not only global crises that force us to act.

The technologies and knowledge are already here, for whatever we think is the solution.
The task is to build the bridge between where we are today and where we dream of being in the future – based on our knowledge, passion, technology and relationships.

It’s a welcome opportunity to focus on the business model, communication, organization – yes, all facets of the company to ensure we have a solid foundation for the journey ahead.
Are our values and culture in order, do we have the right talent on board for the stage we are about to embark on, are just some of the questions I think we should address.
It’s too late to find out when the race starts again, because there will be many ready to get the wheels turning again.

Perhaps we could be inspired by Alvin Toffler’s words that there is a need to learn, unlearn and relearn… I am convinced that this will be more important than ever before.

"Reach out and share your good energy when you have it - and don't be too proud to ask for help and seek encouragement when you need it."

I don’t think this time is easy for anyone, including myself.
Many things are in play.
We have to be home school teachers at the same time as developing and “winding down” business – many are working 24/7 to make ends meet.

That’s why it’s important that we stand together and use our networks.
There are definitely good days and not so good days, and I have promised myself to live up to the above mantra.
It will be my path through this time, and I am confident that it will help me succeed in finding a good way across the bridge.

What do you do?

The future is now!
So now is the time to act and remember to focus on what we can influence and not let the conditions we are surrounded by take over.

Together we find the right solutions.
Together we get to the finish line safely.