Connected, Not Isolated

Unfortunately, keeping a physical distance from our families, friends, and colleagues is going to be our way of life for the coming weeks and months. Whilst our physical health is of utmost importance, we need to carefully consider the impact that self-isolation and social distancing has on our mental health, and the feelings of loneliness they can trigger. I’ve accepted that daily life is going to be different from now on and have come up with a set of rules for both my family and my team at FMXA to help us feel connected during this unprecedented time.

We are not self-isolating, we are virtually connecting.

My youngest daughter was upset at having to cancel her birthday celebrations next week, so we decided to use the opportunity to virtually connect with all her friends. Using the House Party app, we’ll host a virtual birthday party, with the kids able to connect over video call whilst binge-watching Stranger Things on Netflix. We’re able to invite an infinite number of friends, with no limit on space or even cost. I really hope that utilising technology will make celebrating her birthday special. 

We might be self-isolating from the gym, but that doesn’t mean we won’t be doing daily exercise. Instead we can virtually work out and connect with sports and fitness enthusiasts all around the world. In my personal time I love to run, which I still plan to do most mornings (weather permitting!). And on my running rest days, I love to take dance and body combat classes which, thanks to a vast video library readily available online, you can do in the comfort of your sitting room. If you fancy a bit of team motivation, it’s very easy to plan an exercise class virtually with your friends. 

Working from home was in my DNA way before setting up FMXA. My previous role was at Check Point Software Technologies, the pioneers of secure VPN (virtual private network). The business practised what they preached in allowing employees to connect to the network from anywhere securely. Working from home is a discipline that I learnt from my time at Check Point, including maintaining a routine and checking up on colleagues regularly to feel connected. When I first established FMXA our whole team was based from home, and I made sure to regularly order Deliveroo and Pizza to the team for end-of-week celebratory rewards. While we take this time to self-isolate, I plan to go back to my Check Point roots, ensuring that we regularly use of Zoom to keep connected with prospects, clients and team members.

It’s my birthday on the 22nd of April and, as those of you who know me can attest, I love to party. This year, I plan to celebrate with anyone in my personal network that wants to come along:

• Date - 22nd April
• Location – your garden or kitchen on the houseparty app
• Dress code – PJ’s or Tux / Cocktail dresses – your choice!
• Music – 1990s
• Drinks – BYOD (Bring your own drinks)

At this time, it’s important to consider those people who do not have access to technology as a way to help them feel connected and as an industry, we have to make use of all the skills and equipment we have. As a result, if you have any equipment you want to donate to those less privileged, please look into making donations to local schools, care homes, and community centres. Additionally, if you can help anyone in your local community with setting up their phones or internet services, consider popping a note through the doors of your neighbours offering to lend a hand.

 In these uncertain times, we should feel connected, not isolated. This is the perfect time to band together and share ideas for connecting with each other in both our personal and professional lives.