Learning about ourselves from the coronavirus

We are facing an outbreak of respiratory disease caused by a novel (new) coronavirus, COVID-19. The immediate health risk to Hawaii is low, but the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) warn that “current circumstances suggest it is likely that this virus will cause a pandemic” (updated 3/7/2020).

Many businesses, schools, and organizations are sending emails assuring their customers and partners about the steps they are taking to keep the public safe, such as basic hygiene, travel warnings, and canceling events. Schools are cancelling trips, sports teams are playing without fans, and retailers are cancelling workshops.

In times of crisis, we learn a little more about ourselves and how we react to uncertainty.

Be prepared vs. accept that some things are out of our control. As I listened to two brothers argue, it was clear that we can react to the same situation very differently. One brother was alarmed and focused on preparation, buying supplies and starting to limit contact with other people (no handshakes or hugs). The other brother didn’t want to over-react and focused on taking reasonable precautions.

Take personal responsibility for our health. Whether it’s the coronavirus or a common cold, we all have a responsibility to take care of ourselves and stay home if we are ill. I spoke with two people who had very different ideas about taking health precautions: one person was unconcerned about traveling outside Hawaii, as long as he is careful; another person, who is in a high-risk group, decided to practically self-quarantine themselves to remain healthy.

Guarantee trust, privacy, and security. Some companies are encouraging people to work from home. I think it’s a great opportunity if you’re able to do so.  There’s less traffic, lower spending on gas, and more time for family and doing things we enjoy. We just need to remember our responsibility to our employers and customers. It’s important to ensure trust (are people who they claim to be?), privacy (is confidentiality assured?), and security (is the data or communication secure?).

Plan for the best outcome. It can be tempting to concentrate on the crisis, but we also need to plan for the best outcome — enjoying today and planning events, projects, and vacations for the future.

How do you prepare for a health emergency or natural disaster? How do you react in a crisis?

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Tags: Coronavirus, Health, Personal Responsibility

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