Expert opinion: Planning for now and for the future is the key to getting through the pandemic

This is a time of unprecedented change and restrictions and it would not be surprising if you are feeling confused, worried, angry.

Many of us have particular concerns about the health of loved ones who are vulnerable or elderly. We may be far away from people we would like to have close to us at this time (or sometimes we might wish those close to us were further away – at least some of the time!).

On top of that, we have our businesses to worry about and for most businesses this is a challenging time.

Managing our mindset and our thinking, taking care of our own health, fitness and wellbeing is even more important than ever. Only by looking after ourselves can we help others.

Small businesses are experiencing a wide variety of circumstances right now:

• some are closed, and uncertain when they may reopen
• some are continuing as near to ‘business as usual’ as possible, because of the nature of what they do
• some are extra busy and working flat out to support their customers

For all of us, as business owners, it’s important that we remain positive and focus on what we can do rather than what we can’t do. 

It’s critical that we have a short-term plan – what do we need to do NOW to survive and sustain through the coming weeks.  Many businesses have already been working through this.

It’s also critical that we ask ourselves ‘what next?’  What do we need to do NOW to put our business in the best possible shape for coming through and thriving as the recovery takes shape.

Nigel Scott offers business and executive coaching in Wiltshire and Swindon. His 11-point plan for coronavirus business survival is available here. Nigel is offering a FREE hour-long online consultation to help business owners devise their plan. Email nigelscott@actioncoach.com