Covid-19 has had a tremendous impact on all our lives. It has created what some call the “Great Pause.” The Bamboo Farmer views this situation as the winter season rather than a pause. Although it is unclear when this winter will be over, at some point, it will end.
Author’s note:
For those of you who haven’t read my first book, Water The Bamboo®, I use the phenomenal growth of giant timber bamboo as a metaphor for individual and team development and potential
How does a Bamboo Farmer handle winter?
During winter, a Bamboo Farmer plans for the coming spring; in other words, they use their time and energy strategically during winter so that they can be ready for planting in the spring. Some people spend time wishing for a different season, but wishing for a different season is about as useful as bathing a pig—it doesn’t work very well, and it annoys the pig! Do yourself and your team a favor: don’t waste this winter. Use this time to get ready for spring so that by fall, you will have a bountiful harvest.
Take advantage of this winter; it may be a turning point in your career or your business. This winter could launch you into a great spring. Call upon your human ability to retool and innovate. It may be a long winter, but remember that winter does eventually end.
I encourage you to take the Bamboo Farmer’s approach by treasuring the time to think and reflect on how you, your team, and your organization can come out stronger than ever. Water The Bamboo!
Six things to do in winter to plan for an incredible spring:
Build and develop relationships
Sharpen your tools - what skills do you need to add to your tool kit?
Clear the clutter - get rid of outdated equipment, organize your physical space, part ways with relationships that aren’t adding value, etc.
Prepare the soil
Prepare seeds you want to grow
Gather fertilizers - add talent that enhances your team and service offerings