Looking back at 2020, the word adaptation comes to mind. Adapting to social distancing, travel restrictions, working from home and other measures to counter the virus. An exasperating experience to say the least, though it has also forced us to walk the unpaved road. To adapt to changing circumstances and embark on new endeavors.
On a personal note, I have delivered for the first time virtual trainings together with my partner K-infra. A strenuous effort having to fully utilise the available features in tools like Webex, Teams and Zoom. Acquiring a green screen and understanding the importance of lighting. Maybe not as engaging as normal but effective and satisfactory nevertheless. Luckily I have also managed to continue most of my advisory engagements around the world thanks to these tools having even facilitated stakeholder workshops in far away countries with over 100 participants. With results that meet client expectations. And thanks to the reduced travel times I have also been able to build a swimming pool and an outdoor kitchen to simulate at least to some extent the holiday experience.
On a macro level, our health care services has been tested to the extreme though it has also revealed the sector’s sensitivities and the areas that require improvement. An understanding and sense of urgency that would never have surfaced otherwise. Our eduction system had to evolve rapidly into the new age with a blended learning concept. A long overdue improvement that has been accelerated because of the situation. And many companies initiated new business lines allowing them to diversify their portfolio and seeking new alliances.
Yes, it has come at a cost and for many it has been a frustrating year or for some even problematic but as our Dutch football legend Johan Cruyff used to say “every disadvantage has its advantage”. Most of us have enlarged their tool box and we are more enriched and prepared to deal with future uncertainties. 2021 is the year to reap the fruits of our ordeal.
May the force be with you
