After several stressful months, it appears that major areas of the country are approaching an important milestone; the slowing of newly reported COVID 19 cases or “flattening of the curve”.
But it would be a mistake to think that this means “olly olly oxen free”. A “slowing increase” is still an increase. Until there are adequate tests and enough data for each community to confirm that the virus remains within manageable levels, it’s important to hold a tight defensive line.
Nevertheless, as in all crises, lessons from them abound. Forced to slow the pace and narrow the scope of our normally active lives, we have had the chance to think about how we got to this point - beyond just the COVID19 impacts. To identify poorly chosen paths. To reveal weaknesses – and hidden strengths. To look at ourselves and our country with fresh eyes
We are at a “pivot point” - an opportunity to make adjustments upon which important results depend. As we look to restart our economy, here are some opportunities for us:
Healthcare - After HIV, SARS, MERS and now COVID19, it should be evident to all that the risks of deadly contagious diseases are an on-going “national threat”. A federally funded, world-class, proactive prevention and preparedness resource is a cost-effective way to ensure that all States have the best 1) access to accurate and timely information about brewing diseases and treatments from around the world, 2) most current best-practices in control techniques, and 3) support to acquire emergency supplies if needed so Governors can act expediently to keep outbreaks from outpacing local healthcare capacities – or becoming countrywide pandemics.
Work from home options - With recent advances in video-conferencing technology (e.g., Zoom, WebEx, GoToMeeting), “working from home” has earned a place at the table as a viable workplace option for many jobs in many industries. It is time for management to free themselves from 20th century habits and embrace “work from home” as a valid permanent workplace alternative. Utilizing this capability makes better use of time, will reduce pollution created from commuting, and improve the quality of life for employees - without diminishing productivity or work quality.
New economic opportunities - The same technology mentioned above also opens the door for innovators and entrepreneurs looking for fresh fields to plow. Its use so far in tele-health and tele-education has just scratched the surface of potential for new products and services that are now possible if these incredible delivery platforms are leveraged.
Renewable energy sources - It is now painfully obvious that a major emphasis on the development and use of alternative energy sources must become a national priority for economic as well as environmental reasons. Not only will it create new business and job opportunities in and of itself, but it will also allow us to better insulate our economy from the whims of oil producing countries.
It's long past time to make the pivot away from failing 20th century mindsets in business, in politics and in economics. Once we open ourselves fully to forward-reaching opportunities, a cascade of benefits will begin that will allow America to blossom again:
Remotely located employees provide broader candidate pools for businesses, job opportunities for employees, and markets to reach.
The environment will begin to recover as air and traffic pollution diminish.
Over-populated and over-priced metropolises can depressurize and become safer and more affordable for those who remain.
Smaller towns will begin to rebuild as families reunite or start afresh.
Local economies will grow again and revive beloved “small town America” traditions, such as “mom and pop” businesses, which still are at the heart of millions of American Dreams.
Broader educational options can become easily available to all Americans regardless of where they live or from where they are starting from. This will allow all to develop their potential and keep them informed on the performance of their public servants, both signs of a successful democracy.
“We, the People” make up both sides of the economic equation – supply and demand. If our government doesn’t learn to proactively put our lives first, the economy cannot help but suffer - we are living through the proof of this.
2020 is the year when “the People” can reclaim our country’s promises for all of us. Insist that our business and political leaders make America “America” again.
Be safe, healthy, and hopeful.