We’re trapped at home as the pandemic rages. We’re eager to find the path forward, to pivot and reinvent. Easier said than done.
But not impossible.
It’s sad to watch proud, iconic companies decay. But maybe Covid was a blessing for them. A natural thinning of shops and bars that were already teetering on the edge.
Now, all eyes are on the inspired companies that emerged from the rubble – and are killing it. Of course, Zoom and Netflix lead the charge. But exciting ventures are sprouting up and bursting through asphalt.
Commercial real estate is dead, as office buildings sit vacant. But those who’ve courted remote workers are thriving. Sales of home office desks, laptops and wi-fi gear are soaring. Restaurants are closed, but families are ordering home-delivered meals. Hair salons are shuttered while mobile haircutters fill the need. Schools are closed, so there’s no back-to-school shopping. But there’s a strong demand for home-school supplies.
Fewer people are commuting, so dealerships are stuck with unsold inventory. But it’s been a boom for bike sales, home gyms and Pelaton. Nobody’s buying business suits and dress shoes. But casual wear sales are hot for newbies like UNTUCKit and Allbirds.
We are seeing a rebirth, just through a different lens.
Here’s my take: The earth is 4.5 billion years old. Over time, our planet has survived 5 mass extinctions. Life as we know it was wiped out by volcanoes, asteroids and changes in the environment.
Each time our planet was devastated, it came back to life.
So, all is not lost. There are new beginnings for those with courage and vision. Take deep breaths, we’ll adapt and be okay.
