Thread by @whateverhewants

Sometime in the past, read 15 years ago and re-calling on my senior role experience, I was hired to be an interim manager (temporary crisis control manager). In a semi-governmental organisation that needed to deal with austerity measures, policy changes, and non-conforming staff.

They gave me six months to analyse risks, write a proposal, consult on, and implement said proposals. The first few months, because I managed to play 'the being an outsider card', everybody was my friend. The following months, when in the process of writing the proposal different

concerning parties tried to influence me into adding their opinions and trying to secure to their jobs. Which did not always go down well, to an extent that I was berated, bullied and sometimes hated. Even sitting management and board members made their sometimes strong argument.

And yes, a 'friendly visit to my home address' was also used as a means to try to coerce me into manipulating the outcome of the proposal. No real harm was done, and I took it as a compliment that I was on the right track and realised I was occupying a powerful position.

By the time most of the proposals were accepted and implementing meant impacting the livelihoods of employees. Needing to change internal protocols, external PR, also the furlough and lay-offs of employees., I was deemed the 'most hated' and even meme's circulated the office.

It was tough to deal with at times, but I managed to shrug it off, as I had 'a job to perform', and was not hired to be anyone's best friend. I felt justified in my handling of matters and felt empirically supported to adhere, also I held on to this new strategy rollout. #writing

Why this anecdote, and why now, some might ask themselves? The current #coronameasures #VaccineStrategyRollout #protests #framing and #narratives surrounding the pandemic and how this affects people's livelihoods, actions, and opinions, made me re-visit this work experience.

The presence of crisis actors, a matter of urgency, and the need for implementing change in a fluid state of society in order to bring about mass adherence are at the root of this equation. I was duly financially compensated for my efforts and felt support every step of the way.

Showing boldness and tenacity from the management that hired me. All of (above) which I am grateful. The overall experience has shaped me as a person. The company is still using the contingency plan up to date. Previous accolades put me in a position never having to apply for a

new job. One of the managers later joined me in a new professional venture as a change manager "where you go, I go" and is currently at the helm of implementing one of my independent unemployment projects. The need to feel heard, and validated in my efforts does spring to mind.

So from me, to everyone reading #writingcommmunity and/or sharing this, lessons learned from previous crisis, no matter in what position you are experiencing this pandemic response. This too shall pass. Change and continuity for the whole will cause suffering and mutual

incomprehension between parties. It also asks for an exemplary commitment from all parties involved. It will affect you in the long run, so seek durable solutions instead of ad hoc emotional responses. How do you want to see yourself in a couple of years from now?

What was your contribution during the crisis situation? Did you manage to stay flexible - be like water - think outside of your own box and offer solutions? Did you manage to keep your humanity intact, free from judgment, pride, and prejudice? #BeKind The person you point fingers

at now might be you in the future or a family member, or neighbour at present. We all have a mutual responsibility in setting an example in our fight for a just and equal society in the future. Making tough sometimes unpopular decisions. Having said that:

Rest in Peace to those who are no longer with us. Strength to people having to miss a loved one. Much, much love and gratitude to frontline workers dealing with its daily consequences and the handling thereof by their respective governments.

Working together will prove best.

There will be more of the good, expressions of the bad, and encountering of the ugly. Leadership is showing excellence and taking the heat for the greater good.

We the people, all of us, deserve A Good Life.
Divert your energy in believing that you matter, as much as the next.

Good, better, best. Never let it rest. Until your good is better and your better is best. And if being good is better, then 'trying to be better' is lest.

#ValentinesDay #WritingCommunity #loveletterdays

Countdown to #ValentinesDay #WritingCommunity #loveletterdays #AnecdotesOfHope #KoKo Keep on Keeping on.

It's #YourTurn #Tag a loved one who needs this.

P.S. Awaiting your reply.

@threadreaderapp Please, #unroll

@CocoaWhispers @DavidLeanLeano @Koevsjinka @AnasCortezReina @CSAQT @WritingRobot #writingmatters @kwastopzee @overlistener @QPMeeuwise @Bryan65165100