As the vaccines continue to roll out and we see continued signs of a return to “normal,” do not be knocked down by the adversity that we will certainly still encounter along the way. There will be hurdles. They are inevitable, but that doesn’t mean that those bumps in the road have to derail the healing that our lives and businesses are experiencing.
You may still be dealing with a job search after a layoff, concern about customers returning, or your team’s ability to overcome distance or other elements of the new normal. Closer to home, your family and friends may be unemployed, trying to heal from the coronavirus, or facing other struggles. Even those who have bounced back may be hit with an unexpected curve ball.
It is ok to take a moment to assess the situation and center yourself so that you can stay positive. Go for a walk or run. Talk with friends and colleagues. Put on your favorite song or movie. Eat some ice cream.
Then spend some time devising a pathway that allows you to overcome the obstacles that still stand in your way. As a continuous improvement advocate, you are equipped for this battle. You know how to use PDCA (or its variations) to identify a way forward that allows for adjustments along the way.
It’s important that you keep your eyes focused on the road. Keeping aiming for the desired end state while continuing to take the steps necessary to get there. Continually take stock of where you are. Try to anticipate obstacles that may present themselves so you can prepare. And when unforeseen roadblocks appear and seem to overwhelm you, seek out help in your organization, from your peer group or from AME.
My door is always open to our members and others in the lean community. If you need anything, don’t hesitate to call or email. If you are in a job search, please take a look at AME’s job board to see if there are open positions that fit your passions and skills. If you want to expand your network, join one of our weekly lean coffee breaks. If you are looking for training, we have free and affordable learning opportunities each week – not to mention the opportunity to rub shoulders with some of the best lean companies at our Operational Excellence Summit or at the 37th annual AME International Conference.
We know there will be bumps in the road. AME is here to help you navigate around and over them. You’ve got this!
As always, please stay safe and keep looking out for one another.
