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#stayathome Reflections

  • michellejcastaneda
  • May 30, 2020
  • 3 min read

Updated: Jun 9, 2020


In this unexpected, unprecedented and unfolding global pandemic the stats and stories are staggering. So far, there are over 4.7 million confirmed cases of COVID-19 and the current global death toll stands at over 314, 000[i]. It’s mind boggling and sometimes overwhelming to try to comprehend the health, economic, social and psychological impact of this global trauma that has no clear ‘end date’ in sight.


The economic impact is far-reaching with Australia’s unemployment expected to double by June 2020 quarter to 10%[ii]. It has been 8 weeks of unprecedented COVID-19 restrictions in Australia, with all but essential workers continuing business-as-usual.


My husband and I have been working from home, together with our 3 children who attend school online. While it has been somewhat stressful getting into a routine of work/school/MBA study from home, we are acutely aware of our 'comfort'. We have… a house to “social distance” in, are enabled with technology and the internet to continue with our work/school/MBA study, and access to clean water to wash our hands and advanced healthcare if needed.


These past few weeks have given us a somewhat quieter life…and as I reflect, there are a few personal lessons to share...


1) A slower and simpler life does not necessarily equate to a less productive life. Amidst these COVID-19 times, we have re-discovered the joy of sharing our home together (ok, there was transition time here!) and family activities (like sunset walks, board games and cooking) that absolutely fill our soul, whilst not adversely impacting productivity. I can’t recall why we chose to jam pack our everyday lives? Since when did busy become a badge of honour?


2) We never graduate from learning… it is a lifelong journey. I have had to stretch yet again; from learning new technologies, features and platforms…to helping my team pivot to an online sales and marketing plan and transition a cross-functional team to remote ways of working. A growth mindset helps us courageously and continually adapt and innovate in these uncertain times.


3) Our models and mindsets are still entrenched in the Industrial Revolution. I am reminded again that our dominant models of “9 to 5 - Monday to Friday” and “career ladder” thinking are a product of a by-gone era. How can we better design our lives, our organisations and our careers in a way that reflects the 21st global world that we live in? Why can’t we develop new norms that will be a win/win for organisations, families and society?


4) Empathy and kindness will never grow old. I have been surprised by the neighbourly smiles and chats, seen the beauty of family and friends rallying to support each other during tough times of loss… and as such have renewed hope in humanity. We can make a choice here. Will we let these tough times bring out the best in ourselves and our world?


5) Put it all in perspective. My husband works for World Vision where they are undertaking their largest ever global response. The World Vision International president and CEO Andrew Morley shares “For the first time in our 70-year history we are transforming our focus in every single country to an emergency response”[iii]. The response targets more than 70 countries, “with the aim of reaching 72 million people – half of them children… in some of the poorest parts of the world, where advanced health services are almost non-existent and where lockdowns and social distancing are impossible for people who live in slums, settlements or crowded refugee camps”[iv]. These global problems can feel overwhelming… yet, we can all still play a small part by advocating, donating and praying (if you are the praying type).

Even during these tough times… we can help make a difference in our homes, communities and world.


Perspective is important


Gratitude - essential


Learning and innovation - non stop


Empathy and kindness - critical


And contributing to a better world will help ensure a brighter tomorrow for all…

In our stormy season and darkest hours, let’s take it one day at a time. Hope is our oxygen.


But most of all, don’t do it alone...we are in this together.



ABOUT


Michelle J Castaneda is a change catalyst and business leader with over 20 years of corporate and NFP experience. As an Executive Manager Michelle champions change for growth, builds high performing teams and community wherever she goes, and encourages people to lead with purpose. She is a Leadership Advisor, Consultant and Mentor. She holds BEc(Soc.Sci.) and GradDipCIT qualifications and is currently undertaking an MBA at AGSM (UNSW Business School). She lives in Sydney with her husband and their children.

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