A Stitch in Time Saves Nine

This is the proverb that comes to my mind during this difficult time when the whole world is gripped with fear and anxiety but on the other end, there is complete hope mainly due to People and Technology- “Technology for good”. Reading about Bill Gates, getting full time into philanthropy, makes this thought even stronger.  He started focusing on prime issues like healthcare, Climate and Education through the Foundation. Now with this new crisis due to Corona virus and COVID-19, it’s the right time (stitch in time) for someone like Bill Gates to dedicate full time to solve issues, shifting his focus to the whole world, working with the professionals in healthcare and supporting leaders around the globe. It’s always not easy to serve two masters at the same time. This move by Bill Gates, will inspire many to follow a similar path and start giving back in whatever ways possible. Some contribute through investments, through ideas, time, efforts, evangelizing or creating awareness like Greta Thunberg.

The proverb also provides an understanding that it is better to deal with the problem right now and not later, when it might get worse and take a little longer to deal with. This is where we can become more responsible and committed to tackling this crisis. We can unite together to reduce the spreading by listening to the instructions of experts from our workplace, healthcare professionals and leaders around the world. I may be wrong, but listening to the experts confirms that staying indoor, practicing good hygiene and social distancing may help to contain or lower the spread of infection. This has helped in many countries. Scientifically there is no proof that hot weather will help contain the virus, but responsible and emergency measures will be valuable.

Another trend we are seeing lately is being an anxious shopper and stocking items for months. I did it too, but realized it is not worth it. Felt happy when I shared a roll of disinfectant wipes to an elderly couple and they thanked me. We can be a bit mindful and conscious and do the same we did earlier during regular weekend shopping, stock for a week or max 10 days. It will help others who are taking care of people and protecting the vulnerable at home, to go out and shop later. Currently they are only seeing empty shelves. Shops can also plan their inventory and restock essentials. Also crowding in shops beats the purpose of the measures taken by the authorities, organizations or the government.

We are grateful to the organizations caring for their employees and have approved remote and flexible working enabling the best platforms. It is time we adopt this new style of working as well. Thanks to Cloud Computing and modern digital workplaces. It is our turn to help them to serve and add value to the customers during this difficult time. This will help in business continuity and mitigate further damage to the economy and job losses. We are grateful to all the healthcare professionals who are working extensively to help and save lives.

Recommend to adopt the below 4 Cs during this crisis

1.Communicate the right message supported with the right data(science-based and facts)

2.Collaborate more with family and friends

3. Be Compassionate and help self and others in whatever ways possible

4.Cooperate with everyone to enable leaders and healthcare professionals to tackle this crisis. This is not a project where failure is deemed good to learn or backlogs are allowed. This has to be solved immediately.

Integrity – “Doing the right thing when no one is watching and in the state of being whole and undivided” and Empathy “ability to understand and share the feelings of another” are the needs of the hour.

Mobility created the Future and it is here. This generation has seen both good and the bad that is distributed globally. Let us all take the good only and slow down a bit if it is essential.

God bless this wonderful World. Let us all take care, practice good hygiene and stay safe. Prayers and hope the best that this too shall pass very soon.