April 26 2020
By: Terry L. Mathis
When you are deprived of oxygen, it is almost impossible to think of anything else. Conscious life can only continue for a few minutes without oxygen; the need is immediate and urgent. This pandemic has caused a reaction in many industries with a similar urgency. Organizational leaders are scrambling to keep things going as much as possible or looking for ways to survive until business can start again. This reaction is natural and inevitable.
However, once breathing has resumed, we need to turn our attention to the next pressing needs. In times of uncertainty it can be difficult to clearly assess what those needs may be.
Projections of the future are inexact and variable, so it is wise to develop a plan with multiple options. Savvy leaders are looking at best case, worst case, and most-likely case scenarios and making plans to address each in the short term. This kind of planning can speed recovery and ensure viability once the immediate danger begins to subside. Don't wait for things to return to normal. There may be a new normal that will be your business reality in the future. Victory belongs to the prepared!
Terry Mathis, Founder and retired CEO of ProAct Safety, has served as a consultant and advisor for top organizations the world over. A respected strategist and thought leader, Terry has authored five books, numerous articles, videos and blogs, and is known for his dynamic and engaging presentations. EHS Today has named him one of the '50 People Who Most Influenced EHS' four consecutive times. Business leaders and safety professionals seek Terry's practical insight and unique ability to introduce new perspectives that lead to real change.
