Author: Linda Silverman

It is surreal that we are living through a plague.  We’ve all heard about the plagues that killed over half the European population in the middle ages.  What seemed like simply a historic event or a reference in a Shakespearean play is now our own reality.  Regardless of how modern we feel, we are now connected to the Bubonic plagues (“Ring around the Posie” anyone?), Smallpox and Yellow Fever outbreaks, polio epidemic, and Spanish flu.  This is surreal!

There’s so much to think about!  During this pause, I know I join many of you in reevaluating many notions we’ve held dear. 

This is what I’m thinking about: 

This is the first globally collective experience  

Even World War II did not affect every place on Earth.  Yet Covid-19 has spared no place where there are people.  It is an equal opportunity virus in terms of who it infects, although we are learning that the impacts and death rates are being disproportionately borne by the elderly, people of color and low income folks. 

Our heroes right now are those who rarely get attention – health care workers, scientists, grocery and delivery workers, truck drivers, utility workers journalists, teachers etc., not actors, singers or athletes who we usually pay most attention to.  Many of these frontline workers earn at or near the minimum wage.   Could this collective experience lead to a more empathetic distribution of wealth by putting into place policies and programs that support rather than disproportionately harm the working class, per usual? 

We need to be mindful about the rush to return to normal

Our “normal” is to stay so busy and focused on the short-term that we tend to put off needed reforms.  In an economic context, this often means assuming best case scenarios and a cost minimization mindset, with little regard to making needed changes or preparing for “what ifs.”

As we approach the new normal, it’s critical that we embrace the lessons learned – the good and the bad. 

Such as …. reevaluating profit making and financial constructs so that resilience, preparation and mitigation can be monetized, and thereby prioritized.

We’ve learned this lesson over and over, and for the most part, forget it once the crisis is behind us.  Covid-19 is a case in point.  Not putting in place adequate stocks of PPE or testing, expecting those without insurance to be able to access testing and treatment, making it impossible for rural hospitals to stay in business, not anticipating the need for rapid changes in food supply – these were conscious decisions made at senior levels even after MERS and SARS outbreaks.

What else we need to be realistic about:  the climate crisis

Warnings about the inevitability of a pandemic are not the only ones we’ve disregarded.  Our climate is screaming at us.

In the last decade, we’ve contended with Superstorm Sandy (East Coast); Hurricanes Harvey (Houston), Irma (Florida), Maria (Puerto Rico) and Dorian (Bahamas); California wild fires; severe tornadoes; earthquakes; extreme drought, insect infestations and other events that have touched every part of our country and much of our economy.  Each year of inaction leads to higher temperatures, even if by seemingly small amounts.  Even slight changes in temperatures send strong signals to our atmosphere and the natural world of trees, insects, soil, animals, etc. 

We can expect more severe weather and devastating events.  Beyond the impacts on our homes, businesses and infrastructure, we should expect to contend with diseases never seen in the United States, like malaria, as temperatures rise.  As ice melts in the polar regions, there are heretofore unknown organisms and viruses that will be released and could harm humans, similar to Covid-19.  This is not a political issue.  It’s just reality.

In my years working on climate change and clean energy at the US Department of Energy, there was significant resistance to investing in preparing for natural disasters.  Recent improvements in cost and performance have made systems like solar plus (battery) storage much more affordable, although the cost of the storage component can be hard to justify without a way to put a monetary value on the insurance it provides.  Yet, those communities who had the foresight to invest in these systems in Puerto Rico or New York saw immeasurable returns on investment in the first hours of their crises, as emergency operations centers had the energy power to provide important information, supplies and food to desperate residents.  Emergency preparedness needs to be added to the cost minimization ethos, given the likelihood that these events will continue to increase.    

In addition to preparing for the impacts of climate change, mitigating the risk of climate change can be a win-win as it calls for innovation and new thinking, and many jobs. 

Some good news:  just last week we learned that renewables recently overtook coal in US electricity production.  The ability of solar and wind energy to be the least cost alternative in many parts of the United States is due in large part to substantial government and corporate research and development funding (especially significant in the American Recovery and Reinvention Act of  2009), not to mention States that prioritized renewable energy in their Renewable Portfolio (electricity) standards in the last 15 years.  Actually, the solar plus storage systems referred to above are being used in ways unthinkable just a few years ago – to replace fossil fuels in peak times during the day to reduce costs, such as in the afternoon/early evenings.  It’s to our advantage to harness the significant recent progress made in renewables, energy efficiency, transportation and resource efficiency.  Not only will we reduce our human imprint on the only atmosphere we have, we will save money and provide the certainty businesses want.

How we react to the chaos of this pandemic is closely connected to how well our economy and environment fare as we emerge from it.  Please read the Medium.com article below that warns us of rushing back to real life too fast and not fixing the issues that have long ailed our institutions and norms. 

The Good and ?

It will be fascinating to see what unanticipated changes will come to our lives as we emerge from the big pause. 

The favorite part of my childhood, and that of my kids, is due to the polio crisis in the 1930’s and 40’s.  The Jewish sleepaway camp movement, so important for maintaining Jewish identity, started as a way to get kids out of New York and other northeastern cities during the polio epidemics.  Both of my parents were sent to these camps at very young ages.  This unique experience of spending multiple weeks with other kids (and few adults!) in a wilderness camp has been passed on to subsequent generations and is now available in many forms.  We have polio to thank for this important and magical type of summer experience.  Who knew?

I’m wondering if all the new families seen walking in my neighborhood will still do family walks?  Will those who never really cooked before get hooked, and keep cooking? Will we continue to telework all or most of the time?  Will there be a permanent change in how certain business is conducted, such as Courts and Congress? 

A friend reminded me about how much dating has changed in this pandemic, with socially distant courting, reminiscent of much earlier times.

I am curious about density trends.  In recent years, there’s been a rush to living in large cities, leading to hyper expensive housing costs, gentrification and the demise of historical communities.  Will these large cities become less desirable, leading to more reasonable costs of living?  Will smaller cities become even more desirable since New York, San Francisco and other large cities have been too expensive to live in and operate a business? Or will these smaller cities become so popular that they will price out those that have lived there for decades?  Will suburban homes become attractive again since they are NOT adjacent to public transportation, a trend that two months ago was exactly the opposite?  Will biking become even more popular as a means to commute to jobs and do errands? 

I myself am reevaluating where I want to live in my retirement.  I had been thinking living in a more densely populated area was what I wanted, mostly for the ability to walk to shops, restaurants and entertainment.  However, I am more appreciative than ever for my suburban house that has ample space, easy access to the outdoors and nature, and great walks in any direction.

Will manufacturing return to levels not seen in decades in the United States, as we rethink the value of local and diversified supply chains?  Will companies adjust these supply chains to be more nimble and able to adjust quickly to changes in market dynamics, so that food or toilet paper companies could suddenly service new customers?  What will happen to gig economy jobs like Uber and Lyft?  Will we continue to sustainably use food and household products as we are in this pandemic?

As an armchair historian, I’ve benefited from the intellectual discovery that the pandemic has afforded me. I’ve taken full advantage of access to many webinars and zoom learning opportunities that I likely would not have taken the time to go to. Rather than having to leave my house for interesting but often impersonal experiences, I’ve found it’s so efficient to just log in.

 It’s fascinating to think that this pandemic will permanently change life as we know it, in some cases for the better, but we just don’t know how yet.

As I think about what I miss most – sitting in a café, going to a restaurant or play, traveling, going to baseball games, hanging out with my friends – I will pay more attention to how our tastes and preferences are changing, and what new opportunities could come from these changes in trends, customs and lifestyle.    

Most of all, I hope we approach this next phase in a way that smartly connects dots. Being thoughtful about how we as individuals and society design our new normal will serve us all.

I would love to hear your thoughts about the pandemic. What are your hopes for the new normal and what benefits you’ve seen?

For more on this, please see my recent LinkedIn article that is related to this, but a little more scholarly in tone. 

Other helpful and fun resources:

This is the article I refer to above from medium.com.  We need to be careful that we don’t squander the opportunity during the Big Pause to get back to normal and not fix the problems in our society – national and global. 

Good article from Forbes about considering career changes due to the pandemic. Also great advice about using social media to build career bona fides.

Listen to this podcast from KERA in Dallas: Will COVID-19 Spell the End of International Cooperation

An amazing video of how animals are reclaiming their habitats.

In the wake of the massive change to our lives and livelihoods, it is understandable that many are anxious, panicking and/or unsure how to quiet their nerves.  We’re all questioning everything, and hopefully, examining our circumstances and attitudes.    

It is possible to find perspective in this devastation.  While not as huge as the coronavirus, I’ve found myself reviewing past negative events that I now see as ultimately very positive. 

It helps me realize there will be a light at the end of the tunnel.

A positive angle?

Most recently, my son was forced to return home from his college study abroad program.  Upon re-entry, he headed to our basement to wait out his 14-day self-isolation.

Two years ago, we had a devastating flood in our basement, which required a complete redo.  Not only were we forced to finally got rid of all the crap that inundates a home after 20+ years, this flood led to a vastly improved basement. This was fortuitous for my son, who really appreciated spending his two weeks in a much more inviting, cheerful (and less cluttered) place. 

Another example, which I covered in my first blog, was my “luck” in having a hated job in the 1980’s. My commodities trading job in the World Trade Center was such a negative experience that it propelled me to dig deep and figure out what I wanted my next move to be. I escaped to a fantastic graduate program in Washington, D.C., which in turn led to a wonderful 30-year career.

I honestly don’t know if I would have gotten off the path I was on if I had been more or even somewhat content in that job. I can only imagine what could have happened to me had I stayed working at the World Trade Center on 9/11. That detested job may have saved my life.

Finding moments of gratitude

This pandemic has so upstaged our lives that it also offers a unique opportunity to re-evaluate what we may have taken for granted. 

Looking for moments of gratitude has helped me get through this period.

Such as …

I am so thankful to have access to the outside and nature (and am aware that many do not). I am thankful I have my kids and husband with me, and that they are safe and healthy. I am thankful for my dog (who’s loving having her pack around all the time). 

I am grateful to those on the front lines – whether doctors, nurses, hospital workers, grocery store folks, scientists, delivery people, postal workers, utility workers, truck drivers, etc.

I am amazed that literally everyone in the world is affected and staying in – no one is immune from this. The entire planet is consumed with one thing: Covid-19.  Given how different we think we are from each other, it is amazing how equitable this virus is (although death rates are not distributed equitably).  I am cautiously optimistic that this will lead to massive, positive change (next blog’s theme).

The first two links below are helpful for both keeping perspective but also finding ways to stay resilient and get past the paralysis that we may have. They focus on finding something you can control (i.e., breathe; pet your dog; talk to someone, call the mortgage company), solve for the next step, and restart from that new place.  Doing something, no matter how small, reorients your brain to get on a more positive track.  

What I’m being intentional about:

• Reaching out – I’m connecting with folks near and far, some I may not have been in touch with for years.  Humans (especially extroverts!) have a strong need for connection.  I have loved my interactions, whether through calls, texts, emails.  In particular, reaching out to my single friends has been a priority.  Zoom get-togethers (even my nephew’s Zoom wedding!) have created connections like nothing else!
• Trying not to nag my kids and husband – even if I cringe when one of my kids sleeps past noon. Smiling keeps things upbeat.
• Taking long walks is my salvation – really helps alleviate anxiety and reduces the likelihood I’ll gain weight from all the food I’m eating! I’m also taking some zoom exercise classes – not a normal for me.
• Trying to appreciate little things — such as noticing a cool leaf, colorful planting or nicely painted door during my walks.  This brings a freshness to a walk I’ve done a thousand times before, and helps me realize there is beauty everywhere.
• Reflecting on what gives me joy right now – and seeing how the simple things have the most value right now.  It really provides perspective when I realize how much I love looking at the $15 air plant I bought at the most recent Philadelphia Flower Show.  I’m loving watching my tomato plants grow from seeds.  There are fewer weeds in my garden because I have time to keep up on it.  Finding a two-ply roll of toilet paper would be amazing!  I find it so interesting that none of the nice clothes, shoes or jewelry I own are making this list …
• Looking for creative outlets. It’s fun creating meals out of what I have – improvising on old recipes or new ones I’ve wanted to try.  I’m also loving my Zoom watercolor class, even though my skill is very questionable.
• Giving back – donating more than ever to charity and attempting to give blood.
• Watching new shows, especially those that are uplifting.  Personally, Schitt’s Creek is an amazing remedy for anxiety!

Please stay safe and try to find perspective in this global horror.  This pandemic is especially traumatic for those experiencing extreme financial hardship, Coronavirus/other health issues, or devastating personal loss from losing someone to Covid-19.  For others, this is only a deep disruption. I really feel for those trying to work and homeschool small kids or manage those with special needs.  Still, we all have to try to find perspective to get through this, and prepare for what comes after.

What is no longer a cliche: if you have your health you really do have everything.

It will be interesting to look back and see how Covid-19 has changed the trajectory of our lives … negatively or hopefully, positively.

I would love to hear your thoughts – whether how to stay calm and moving forward or what else you may be feeling.

Helpful resources I’ve found lately:

Jean Chatzky’s Her Money podcast on How to Make Good Decisions During Uncertain Times  Listen to the first interview (at least) with Carl Richards, a Certified Financial Planner, who has great financial advice.                                          

Maria Shriver’s interview with Mel Rubin – Mel Robbins is amazing and provides tips to overcome anxiety. I’ve started following her on Instagram.

This Togetherness video (2 minutes) will make you think and smile. 

I’ve never understood the disparagement of millennials.  From my experience working with many millennials, I think they are the most capable, powerful and fun generation ever.

What’s Different?

I came up in a very hierarchical working world, where roles, contribution and expectations were determined by age, rank, length of employment and sex. My experience working with many millennials is that they have benefited from a far less regimented world and more robust educational system (another controversial topic).  Most also grew up in the digital revolution, rendering them the first digital natives.  

As I spent most of my career trying to deal with the impending doom of climate change, I am convinced that it is this generation, followed closely by Gen Z, that have the skills to transform our economy through integration of energy/environmental and information technologies. They tend also to be more altruistic and less materialistic- meaning they want to save the world in a way that earlier, more myopic generations couldn’t and wouldn’t.

A huge difference from when I was young is the much higher regard for early career folks, even interns, by their higher-ups. They are in a unique situation – they generally are qualified to produce on day one in areas that their bosses – baby boomers and those born prior to 1980 – often are still stymied by. Millennial Interns and staff that have worked for me were very nimble – able to process a lot of information quickly and in a digestible manner – whether using visual tools or social media.  To a person, they were efficient, effective, productive and a joy to be around from day 1. 

What’s the Same?

Yet many still face the same age-old concerns and fears that they are not good enough or are stymied in their ability to get ahead. They are still human … their careers (and mostly, their salaries) are moving at the Darwinian pace even if their skills are beyond past generations, essentially post-evolutionary.  They may still question themselves and experience imposter syndrome where they question their abilities. Or they still need to navigate organizational structures that are complex and confusing.  Of course, as a generation, they are facing financial pressure and debt not seen in many decades.  

My experience has led me to some counterintuitive lessons that I’d love to pass on:

1. Don’t be too eager to be the boss.  I’ve seen countless examples of twenty-somethings thrust into a management role before they have enough experience and training to manage people and resources well.  The real problem with this, other than the impact it has on their subordinates, is that it’s very hard to return to a staff/worker level to secure the proper skills.  I fear that this early rise could actually stall a career as you are “found out” and your reputation is tarnished irreparably.  Be patient – moving up the ladder on a more conventional timeframe can actually help you be more successful down the line. 
2. Don’t be timid about approaching those at the later stages of their career.  I always thought that those in their late 50s and older would be too busy and uninterested to talk to me.  However, what I’ve found is the opposite.  Those later in their career tend not to be as interested in promotions but rather find satisfaction in giving back to those coming up behind them.  When approaching these folks, please be mindful that they are really busy and need you to be patient when scheduling a meeting.  Also, they expect you to be focused with questions once in it.  Remember also that you, not them, should be the initiator of most mentoring meetings.
3. You hold the most power when accepting a new job.  It is at this time when you can negotiate for more money or benefits – especially in large organizations.  Just be careful about demanding part-time or telework if it’s not already offered.  These most often must be earned once an employer views you as invaluable.
4. Don’t expect yourself to be perfect.  Perfection is not achievable and shouldn’t be the goal (unless you’re a surgeon or air traffic controller!).  While I used to aspire to be a perfectionist, what I’ve found is that perfectionists have difficulty completing assignments.  It’s actually more efficient and personally more satisfying to realize a project or assignment is good enough (emphasis on “good”) and you can move on to the next one, helping the organization to be more successful.  One caveat – please edit your work and make sure there are no grammatical, spelling or math errors!
5. No one is great at everything.  I always thought I had to do everything exactly right.  In looking back at the bosses and colleagues I admire most, none were great at every aspect of their jobs.  This realization helped calm me down when I expected too much of myself. 
6. Be conscious about what works and doesn’t work with your manager, budgeting/finances and other management principles as you go along in your career.  Consider writing it down or imprinting it in your consciousness.  This will help you down the line as you move up and are in positions to apply what you consider to be best practices. 

I welcome your thoughts. 

NB: I love the Her Money podcast, especially this one that focused on negotiating for salary/benefits when accepting a new job:  https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/hermoney-with-jean-chatzky/id1098802558?i=1000459938138