Seven Words, One Week - 1

At the beginning of this week, the Tribe moved to respect the call for social distancing. We went remote. We are incredibly lucky to be able to do this. Many people can't. Those of us who can have a duty of care to ensure we do - that way we play a small but important part in removing chains of transmission and reducing the risk to others. It's the same psychology we have adopted in our Climate Emergency and Net Zero 2025 declaration - those of us who can, must.

As we approach the end of our first week as a virtual Tribe, I thought I'd share some observations. And summarise each observation in a word. Words are unbelievably powerful. When knitted together they can create siren calls for action - grounded either in love or hate, hope or despair.

Observation 1: The team has been unbelievably impressive during these tough times. This comes as no shock or surprise to me. But I have to say, I am so proud of everyone in the Tribe for their 'can do' and 'keep going' attitude. So, to the team, thank you, you rock! Teamwork.

Observation 2: Our collective wardrobes are a great indication of our diversity (says the woman in dungarees and sneakers). Nothing says more about you or your Tribe than the clothes you choose to wear whilst remote working! I think we have most fashion trends over the decades covered and a huge amount of expression as a result. Rays of sunshine can come in unusual forms! Creativity.

Observation 3: Covid-19 is everywhere. I've been at home for the last 3 days self isolating with mild symptoms. It's part of the human condition to assume it won't happen to you. It can. And it does. Don't underestimate the pervasiveness of this virus. Please respect what the experts are telling us to do: keep your distance whenever and wherever you can. Awareness.

Observation 4: If the technological resilience we are currently enjoying persists it reinforces the message about how we can permanently change some of our habits. And heaven knows, we are going to need to. We have been eroding the ecological fabric we inhabit for decades. We have over consumed and far exceeded nature's carrying capacity. We must adapt to a new norm where we live within the boundaries nature sets. This is doable. We have the knowledge. Do we have the will? Opportunity.

Observation 5: The community spirit has survived despite rumours to the contrary. I have been so heartened to see how the majority of us are coming together to support those in need, not just here, but globally. From technology based support (like NextDoor) to more traditional paper based postcards of support, generosity and love are rising. More please. Kindness.

Observation 6: Suddenly everyone is an expert on pandemics. Unless you know what you're saying or writing is backed up by evidence and/or the experts, don't say/write it. What the world doesn't need right now is more amateur armchair commentators or runaway chains of misinformation and content that start stampedes. Stick to the facts. As Mark Twain said 'A Lie can travel halfway around the world while the Truth is still putting its shoes on'. Respect.

Observation 7: Upwardly managing parents is challenging! It's like some sort of role reversal from my teenage years. "Why have you been out? Where did you go? What have you been doing? Do the rules mean nothing to you!?" This becomes even more challenging when one is trying to support remotely. Take a breath, hold it, then let it out. Wise words from many a Yogi and instantly applicable to those of working in finance. Patience.

Teamwork. Creativity. Awareness. Opportunity. Kindness. Respect. Patience.

Words that create the fabric of behaviours we all need to embrace. All that learning in just one week. It's true what they say, the struggle we find ourselves in today builds the strength we need for tomorrow.