Most of the time when people start writing a business plan because their banker or an investor has asked them for one. Be prepared writing a business plan to achieve net zero, is going to be a lot of hard work.

The best reason to write a Net-Zero Business Plan is because it’s the right thing to do. It’s the right thing for the planet. It’s the right thing for our children and it’s the right thing for your business.

The wrong reason to write your Net-Zero business plan is that it’s gonna make you a bunch of money and help you the position your business as truly unique. Be careful.

You can definitely expect those positive outcomes if you manage the business well. To be genuine, objective and focused your intention has got to be that you truly want to make a Net-Zero difference.

For too long capitalism has had a toxic attitude. That exploitive view point is the earth is here for us to exploit it. After all, if you don’t do it, your competitors will. So the thinking goes like this, “better that it be me than the greedy bastard down the street.”

For decades, business schools and entrepreneurs have subscribed to the notion that competition is good. Marketers say things like “customers don’t know what they want, until we tell them what they want.” This jaded and flawed point of view is what is polluting the earth.

The single biggest flaw in capitalism and in the entrepreneurial community is the mantra “better, faster, cheaper”. Unfortunately, consumers have come to expect a constant march towards efficiencies and getting their products “better, faster, cheaper”. More for less.

The problem with the “more for less” consumer mindset is that it forces business owners to forsake their morals and principles, in order to make sure that they can deliver “more for less”. Because if they don’t do it, there’s another greedy competitor that will do it. Most likely that competitor doesn’t have a conscience about the environmental cost or impact to the earth.

I know I’m sounding like a bleeding heart fear mongering environmentalist. I haven’t always thought this way because it wasn’t convenient or expedient.

The truth is, when you start to look at the impact unfettered capitalism and consumerism is having on the planet, it truly is disturbing.

You can refuse to read this book and carry on your merry way and continue to do what you’ve always done. The truth is, it’s probably a lot less expensive and stressful to simply ignore the impact our businesses have on our employees, communities and the earth.

To achieve a Net-Zero carbon footprint for your business is going to cost you money, time and significant effort. To lead the transition of your business towards a net zero carbon footprint will be worth the effort.

If you choose to take on the responsibility and the burden of leadership to figure out how to reduce your carbon footprint — you will be able to hold your head high. You’ll have the pride of knowing what you’ve created and that it is not only environmentally sustainable but it is also profitable. Environmental sustainability is the only good for the plan but it’s also good for your business and the community.

I believe there is a day not so far off, where if you don’t have a Net-Zero business strategy you will struggle. You’ll struggle to get support from your customers, the community and profit will be elusive.

It’s time to get with the program. Get ready for a work out and you’ll increase your businesses “climate change fitness” level. Your customers will love it and you will have the pride of knowing you provided the leadership to make it happen.

netzerobusinessplan.com/2021/12/0…

In the last 30 years I cannot remember a time of greater economic uncertainty, massive societal shifts and risk to humanity, all happening at the sane time.

As difficult as it might be, we must all transition from a crisis, survival state-of-mind to a concrete action plan, a set of measures based on a vision for the future.

That is what my vision is for my new book the “Net-Zero Business Plan” to find a balance between dreams our for the future and the harsh realities of pandemic life.

This book will be different from my first business planning book “Tips & Traps for Writing An Effective Business Plan”. The Net-Zero Business Plan will also help you write a business plan and perhaps more important, I hope to impart a way of thinking about your business holistically. My plan for this book is two-fold. It will be a training manual that will contain equal parts strategic and tactical planning tips and tactics.

Yes, you will learn how-to write your business plan (with a Net-Zero emphasis), you will also read about the strategic mental discipline of business as well as the tactics and moves needed to play the game. It is like playing a game of chess, you plan your moves in advance based on an overall “game” strategy. All of it is based on your vision for serving your customers, profitably and safely.

10 Ways To Move Out of Survival Thinking and Crisis Management

In a crisis it is natural to step into survival thinking. Remember, survival thinking is not a long-term, winning business strategy. Survival thinking is necessary and unavoidable in a crisis. If you live in crisis and survival mode for long periods it becomes a habit. When these survival habits become engrained, we struggle to problem solve and plan for the future.

When I sustained periods of survival thinking we can end up trapped in our primitive part of our brain. When this happens we struggle to access the higher level brain functions of the pre-frontal cortex (PFC) including attention, impulse inhibition, memory and cognitive flexibility. Your PFC is uniquely adept at guiding you through complex thoughts and emotional behaviours. Survival thinking is not a long-term solution to a major systemic crisis like a Pandemic or how to design and operate a Net-Zero business.

When you are in your primitive brain, it is like driving fast at night through a twisting canyon road, with only your headlights. The headlights only reveal a portion of the road ahead. You can’t afford to divert your attention for even a split-second without putting yourself and your passengers at risk. The same is true when navigating through a crisis.

To access your higher level brain functions we have to force ourselves to slow down and take daytime trips to gain greater perspective of the environment, the road and the best path forward. The thinking that it will take to rebuild and escape a crisis is not the same thought process it takes to survive, cope and rebuild in a crisis.

10 Steps To Pull Yourself Out of a Pandemic Rut

What follows are ten brief observations of the thought processes on the strategic road to rebuild in the midst the crisis’ we face.

1 What happened?

When a crisis hits, our first natural reaction is “What happened?” During this stage confusion, disbelief and overwhelm ensue. You cannot move forward until you admit what happened, happened. Take tome to observe and acknowledge what happened and make a list of your observations.

2 Now what?

So when something big happens that rocks your world, eventually you decide it’s time to move on. Then at some point it’s natural to ask “Now what?” Take time to assess your options and review your list of “what happened”.

3 Status Quo Or Are You Ready To Move Forward?

There is a natural yearning for things to get back to where they were, back to normal. Given the exponential era we are living in, the status quo is choosing to not confront reality of one’s current situation. The only result that will come from trying to maintain the status quo is unnecessary pain and suffering.On the other hand, making a decision to move forward is a power move that gives you back some sense of control in a difficult situation. Make a decision to figure out how you will move forward.

4 Comfort Zone or (denial) Time to Rebuild?

It’s natural to maintain and stay in one’s comfort zone. It can also be a mistake. It can also be an opportunity to rest and reconsider your options. We need to exercise caution when in our comfort zone as it can also become a very comfortable prison of procrastination. Spending time in your comfort zone is totally normal, for awhile. If you are going to witness forward movement, at some point you must step over your self-imposed fears and step into the unknown — your learning curve.

5 Step Into The Learning Curve

The moment you step out of your comfort zone (face your fears) you will feel one of two things. In my experience, stepping into the learning curve produces either a sense of exhilaration freedom or fear of the unknown. Regardless whether you are experiencing fear or exhilaration, pay attention to the feedback from the actions you take, extract the lesson and make an adjustment.

6 When You Decide to Reinvent or Pivot

The moment when you realize that your “vision” of what might actually be possible for you — your self-image and self-perception changes. When your self-perception changes, tension rises and tension always seeks resolution. The energy of tension seeks resolution because you feel an urge, a need for forward movement. There is an urgency, a feeling, a need or an opportunity to reinvent or pivot. This tension can become the catalyst to spur you into action to resolve the problem or discomfort you are experiencing.

7 Get Clear About The Results You Want

When you are faced with massive change, the first thing is to get clear about the result you want and visualize it. This will accelerate your progress and add momentum to your actions. It’s hard to begin to dream again when processing trauma like we’ve experienced in the COVID-19 pandemic. Sometimes it’s the small decisions, the small victories which remind us of what is possible and help us begin to dream again.

8 Create an Action Plan

When you have clarity about the results you want, it’s time to put more specifics, a framework, or structure and process for how you go about building your vision or result.

9 Implement your Plan

When you have clear vision and a plan, it’s time to put your plan into effect. Just like flying an airplane, you can’t fly safely unless you file a flight plan. Then set your course and commit to your flight (action) plan. Not only do you need to know where you’re going, you need to know the weather (environment) so you can avoid the storms and plan the best path around the crisis on the journey to your destination.

10 Be Ready To Adjust Course

Your plan is your map to your destination, like a pilot you need a map and a compass. Every pilot tracks their progress by paying attention to how the environment, weather and headwinds are affecting the aircraft. They constantly adjust their course and always know where there is a place to land in case of an emergency. You will also need to pay attention to how your environment and “weather” are changing while you are implementing your plan. Also, it’s a good idea to have a alternative, a Plan B in case you need to make an emergency landing.

I am available to discuss your unique situation. I offer a free one hour assessment to help you get through the immediate overwhelm and confusion. I can be reached at 1–403–307–8281 or gregbd at Mac dot com

netzerobusinessplan.com/2021/11/3…

These days we must all narrow our focus. This is certainly true during this pandemic.

The Alberta UCP party is Adolescent

Watching the Alberta UCP government is like watching hungry adolescent filling their plate to the brim. Their eyes are bigger than their stomach and they cannot finish a meal because they choose to much food. The Alberta budget is not your last meal Mr Kenny.

What we are witnessing is a tragic and sadly comedic government accident. In this case, Jason Kenny and his UCP cronies reach is longer than their grasp.

Learn to Manage Constraints or Fail

We are all subject to the same limitations when trying to bring change. We all have to cope with the constraints of time, effort, energy and resources. If you fall off the end of this runway on any of these four constraints, you run the risk of not being able to complete your major goal.

Protect Albertans Future First

The current Alberta government, under the leadership of Jason Kenny, is in danger of failing in its primary mandate – protecting Alberta’s citizens. In addition, there is no coherent, cogent or consistent message. The Kenny government is guilty of micro-managing the Alberta economy. This is a plan doomed to fail.

Kenny Lacks Composure

The Premier is all over the place and trying to be everything to everybody. Worst of all, his desperation is evident. He is attempting to portray that he, the Alberta caucus and the UCP have all the answers. In this once in a century event, nobody has all the answers.

The most dangerous thing is Kenny’s fragile ego seems to be running the show. His false pride needs to take a back seat to the needs of the people of Alberta. Either eat Humble pie now or you will be forced to eat it at the ballot box.

What Albertans Need is Humble, Calm and Thoughtful Leadership

Every single time I’ve watched a video of Premier Kenny he seems angry, anxious or agitated and seems to be making things up as he goes. It’s hard to watch.

Kenny needs to lose the anger, hate and control his vitriolic tendencies. He needs to learn not take the bait by journalists questions. That’s not why we elect a government.

We elect government to be our voices, set policy and work with our top bureaucrats that actually make things happen.

Premier, do us all a favour and calm down. We need you to be rational, calm and consistent. Make sure your messaging is in alignment with a vision for Alberta that we can get behind.

I have heard no clear vision for Alberta other than budget cuts and anger towards Wexit from Kenny.

Stop The Budget Whack-a-Mole Madness

You can’t play whack-a-mole on every single line item of the massive Alberta budget. From my armchair view, the Alberta UCP Party lacks vision.

They must pick a few priorities that they have clarity, confidence and actual ability to change. Otherwise they’ll get sucked into tyranny of attempting to do too much and accomplish little.

The Electorate Is Tired, Anxious and Impatient

These days the electorate have a limited capacity to absorb change. We easily fall into chaos when we become overwhelmed. Now is the time to limit your reach to match your grasp.

Future generations are either going to pay the price of your overly aggressive, broad policies or they will praise you for a pragmatic approach that tackled our most pressing priorities.

Choose wisely Premier Kenny and caucus. We Albertans have limited resources and patience. Don’t mess this up or we will force you to eat humble pie at the next election.

Covid-19 Is Forcing Us to Adapt

Change is hard. Forced change makes us either bitter or better.

I understand how condescending and cliche “bitter or better” sounds. That does not change the truth that life as we’ve known it has changed. We stand at a the chasm of choice.

We either choose to regress and fall back upon unconscious patterns and habits. Or we choose to set our emotional attachments aside and figure out how to become “better”.

It is simple to become better, we choose it. We choose to adopt a different outlook and a new belief. One that asserts a variety of new possibilities, probabilities and opportunities appear. We can access this powerful posture when we refuse to define ourselves by this pandemic.

We can no longer rely on the patterns and habits to which we’ve become accustomed. The sooner we adapt to this reality the better off we will be.

If we choose to embrace this point of view, we must develop new skills and abilities. We will need to learn how to set our comfortable habits and emotional attachments aside.

The secret to coping with change lies in our ability to move forward. To cast our comfortable attachments, habits and patterns aside. We choose to become a student again. To allow life itself to be our guide, mentor and teacher. When we do this we eclipse our limitations and old unconscious patterns. We can then begin to experiment and flirt with new ideas and concepts. This is when we begin to figure out how to predict, adapt and respond to this upside down year.

During this period of great change, one of our greatest challenges is to look beyond the present. We must recognize there are opportunities beyond our current knowledge, data and perceptions. To create a breakthrough it will need imagination, courage and determination.

We must develop a willingness to cast aside old assumptions. To be willing to tackle a new personal imperative, reinvention.

Now is the time to leave no room for old unexamined attitudes, beliefs, values and ideals. Rather, to adopt a new approach of illumination and transformation. No more waiting around for things to get back to “normal”. Instead, decide you are the master of your own ship. You are going to embark on a new adventure of personal transformation.

It will not happen now. It will unfold when you begin to confront your existing beliefs, values, ethics and morals. Then you can rebuild your identity, from the inside out.

If you’d like to speed up through this current learning curve, reach out. Let’s explore what you might be able to achieve. What could occur as you embrace the inherent opportunities during the pandemic. You might surprise yourself. Actually transform your undeveloped strengths and discover what you are capable of achieving.

This could be a time of unprecedented opportunity to inhabit your life. Allow yourself to renew and tap into your childlike curiosity. Cultivate curiosity without an agenda. Embrace genuine curiosity, then witness yourself. You will learn and uncover new aspects that were awaiting your discovery.

My name is Greg Dickson. I operate Life Origami Corporation. It is a joint effort with my wife and business partner, Amethyst Peony Dickson . You can reach us on Twitter @LifeOrigami or learn more about our new book,The Lost Guru.

I am all too well aware of impact cancer has in a persons life.

Cancer forces us to face the grim reality of our own mortality.

I’ve had the unusual experience of burying my family. As the youngest in the family, mathematically the odds were I would be the last man standing and the one saying goodbye.

For decades I embraced my good health and good fortune. My brother, sister and father died early. My mother enjoyed 91 years, outlived 3 husbands and made the most of a good long life.

As I’ve got older, the preciousness of the gift of life becomes increasingly apparent.

I understand why people are rightfully proud of surviving cancer. For those who needed chemotherapy and radiation it is a very serious and real battle. I do not mean to demean their struggles and challenges. I just think making the cancer journey into an identity forces us to relive it and into becoming a permanent victim.

It’s one thing to use the phrase “I’m a cancer survivor.” as a way of acknowledging the journey. I can relate the sense of accomplishment of being able to come out the other side victorious. It is quite another to wear “I’m a cancer survivor.” as a badge of honour.

It is a very different thing to feel grateful for the opportunity to continue to live. To move forward, I believe we must make a choice to step beyond the cancer label. Either we choose to ruminate about cancer and how bad it was/is or we decide it is time to put it behind us.

When we put our cancer experience in the review mirror, we shift our energy to focus on making the most out of the time we have left. Now that is worth celebrating!

In all my years, I’ve only met one person who spoke of being a “cancer survivor” in a positive light. Everyone I’ve met seemed determined to live in a perpetual victim mentality of “I’m a cancer survivor.”

Here’s an uncomfortable truth...

The type of cancer I had was bowel cancer, when caught early, bowel cancer has a very good survival rate. A type like mine has a 100% survival rate when caught early. I did not need any radiation or chemo as the surgery to remove 13” of my colon was a successful intervention. Fortunately, it had neither metastasized or invaded the bowel wall. The only complication I had was an infection in the incision wound.

Nine months later I would have a second operation to repair the football sized hernia that resulted from the infection of the first operation.

I’m grateful to have good genes, good doctors and universal health care. I draw the line at creating an identity of being a cancer survivor. I will assertively correct anyone who tries to apply that label to me or anyone I know.

Cancer is not something to survive it is an opportunity to get on with the business of living our best life. What do you say?

There is no place in our world for bombastic shockumentaries designed to disrupt and disturb our society. How is it that we ended up being vulnerable to such obvious ploys to manipulate and shape our psyche?

The cynical amongst us might tout a decades long tradition of media manipulation and training at the hands of Hollywood directors and filmmakers. They would be right. We have spent years of our lives in front of the TV and forking over our hard earned dollars to sit in a dark room with strangers, eating over priced popcorn and sodas.

Slowly, subtly our minds have been hard wired for action, drama and outlandish yet not so subtle plots in the TV shows and movies we watch. We have replaced relaxing on the couch with a good book, for being entertained and stimulated by writers, directors and actors on TV and now via Netflix and the small screen.

Since 2007 I have owned a smart phone. I am more connected and familiar with global and current affairs than any period I can recall. However, I have had to learn how to be present, manage my emotions and my reactions to the drama that often unfolds on my small screen.

The problem with the movie Plandemic is that the producer has tapped into our primal fears. Much in the same way that politicians have become accustomed to twisting reality, this movie follows an anti-vaccine narrative to spark outrage in a public that is most vulnerable.

The way they twist the message is by mixing facts, anecdotal evidence, conspiracy theories and propaganda. This is a poor excuse of a documentary. It resembles more of a shockumentary or a mockumentary. It relies on the same tactics as dictators, criminals and unscrupulous politicians have done decades — smoke, mirrors and lies. All dressed up in a wolfs suit. It is fear based, primal brain triggering, psychological mind cannibalism.

The problem with this so-called film, is that it uses some fact based information that is verifiable, merges it with anecdotal observations, adds in a twist of personal projection which makes it unverifiable. This kind of consuming behaviour is actually harming your consciousness, it is feeding the fear cycle. In addition, you end up training your brain to live in fear which will only bring more fear, doubt and anxiety.

However, all that being said, my biggest question for those of you that have promoted this so-called documentary is:

“What specifically have you learned as a result of watching it? What about it is credible and how is what you have learned watching it going to make a positive difference in your life?“

I don’t think anybody can watch that movie and answer those questions honestly.

No question, it’s hard work to break these lifelong consumption habits and requires a constant vigil at the doorway of your mind. ˆMa here to reel you that the battle for your mind is worth the effort.

It will liberate you from the tyranny of fear-based media and a society fixated on the spectacular, bombastic and dogmatic half truths. I don’t know about you, I think we deserve better than this. And it’s up to us to create our own reality.

The most difficult work you’ll ever do in your life is to stand gaurd at the door of your mind and to consciously evaluate and process the information, opinions and so-called facts that the world dumps into your consciousness. It is each persons job to sort out which information is net-positive versus that which can only produce a net-negative return on your attention.

If you put in the effort to evaluate whether or not the information that is being shared or consumed is producing a net positive or a negative affect on your life — it’ll make a dramatic difference in the quality of your life. And this is the only way that I found to keep my hand on the rudder of my life when the storms of the world come to disrupt and dismantle it.

You either stand guard at the doorway of your mind and use your brain to separate fact from fiction or you will forever be on the treadmill of other people’s agendas, priorities and dogma.

Remember, dogma is not just the sole domain of religion. It is used by authority figures, the paranoid and those angry souls whose ego has been permanently scared by the trauma of dogma. Dogma is used by those in authority, those who have an agenda to disturb, disrupt or make money off of the fear they instill in our minds, only if we let them.

What we are witnessing is the unraveling of our anxious, traumatized and now paranoid citizens. The fact that this film has gone viral does not affirm its validity, it only confirms how far our societies ability to cope with rapid change has fallen.

We owe it to our children and grandchildren to be vigilant in our pursuit of facts, refute damaging fiction in the face of extreme adversity and change.

We have a choice to be either shaped by tragedy or defined by it. The difference is a matter of choice. Never forget, whatever you allow to enter your mind will shaped you, whether it defines you is your choice.

Your life is out there, go out and get it.

If you are interested in how my wife and I help people like you transform their seemingly impossible odds into possibilities, visit Life Origami, to get our new book, The Lost Guru. http://lifeorigami.com/the-lost-guru-book/

Wisdom from 1933

“So, first of all, let me assert my firm belief that the only thing we have to fear is fear itself — nameless, unreasoning, unjustified terror which paralyzes needed efforts to convert retreat into advance.” Franklin Delano Roosevelt

Wisdom from 1941

These words by Winston Churchill are poignant given the state of this 2020 crisis.

“Never give in, never give in, never, never, never, never-in nothing, great or small, large or petty — never give in except to convictions of honour and good sense..” Winston Churchill

2020: Look in the Mirror

I believe success is simply a reflection in the mirror of the container we call “life” which indicates you had the courage to persist. It is what you will become because of your response to adversity that changes your destiny. That said, to step into your true destiny requires great courage and determination.

My greatest concern for our world and this 2020 crisis is two-fold:

1. The danger is this “crisis of fear” changes us forever and as a result, we get caught in a pattern of primitive, survival behaviour. Humans struggle to thrive when in “survival mode”.
2. When confusion or great fear shows up, we can be tempted to quit on our dreams. The danger lies when we misinterpret this sense of relief we feel once we give up on our dreams. This is because we think the absence of tension (which evaporates when we give up on our dream) as peace and a sign we’re on the right track. Nothing could be further from the truth. That relief of tension happens because we have fallen back into our comfort zone.

Danger of Survival Thinking

One thing is certain, this 2020 crisis will change the way you view the world, yourself and how you relate to others. Either you learn to choose how you will respond or you will stay trapped in the hamster wheel of reaction, fear, failure and survival.

To escape the clutches of fear, you have to rise up and say, “ENOUGH! I choose a life of my making based upon finding the courage to continue despite all obstacles.”

Either you choose to live a life of fear and survival OR a life that is focused on finding the courage to continue to chase your dream, despite the obstacles and chaos.

Are you making decisions based on fear, fiction or facts?

In times like these, we must fight doubt and call upon our determination to build something and rise to the challenge of becoming something more. Please, don’t allow yourself to shrink away from your dreams. This 2020 crisis represents an opportunity to look fear, doubt and anxiety in the mirror … lean in, grin, “Watch me!”

The question that this period in our history is seeking an answer to is… “Did this fear and terror define you or did you use it as a catalyst to redefine and reinvent yourself?”

Taking Back Control

Our best self is revealed when we move out of our “comfort zone” and move into the “growth zone.” This is a perfect time to adjust your vision and respond by reinventing yourself. Focus your energies and intentions forward.

Could this be one of the human race’s finest moments? Could this be your own once-in-a-lifetime, defining moment? Will you answer the call? How will you summon up those in developed strengths and latent abilities to take back control of your life?

This is Your Point-of-Power

In any moment we have a choice. To be defined by our circumstances or to be the one defining and determining how our life will unfold. This time in our humanity has the potential to be one of our finest moments in all of human history. Only if we put our shoulder into it.

Defined versus Defining

Are you going allow your circumstances to define you or are you going to choose to define the meaning, significance and opportunities that you will create?

Let’s pretend for a moment that it’s now 5 years into the future. As you reflect and look back at yourself, what do you see? Are you going to recall how scary, intimidating and destructive 2020 was or will you observe that 2020 was one of your finest moments?

You can choose to shrink and buy into the fear agenda.To feel intimidated by complete interruption of your life. Or you can set an intention that you discover how you can make this period in your history one of your most prolific, productive and perhaps the finest period in your entire life?

Stand At Your Point of Power

Today, in this present moment lies your point of power. It is in this moment and every moment of our lives that we have the power to choose. We can choose to shrink, be intimidated or scared. Or we can choose to rise up, to tap into that part of ourselves that is courageous, bold and daring. Then intentionally tap into the vast storehouse of our undeveloped strengths.

That’s right, we don’t believe you have weaknesses or that fate is dealing you an unfortunate hand. No, we believe that your so-called weaknesses are actually undeveloped strengths.

We believe that if you had the time, energy and focus you could choose to transform those shortfalls into strengths. Yes, it will require you to invest the effort, energy, time and resources to rework your life into the shape you desire. It is possible if you choose to shed the opinions and beliefs of others.

If you have the audacity to choose to make this time, right now, into one of the finest moments of your entire life. Could this be humanity’s finest moment? Could this be one of your finest moments?

The Last Word Goes to Muhammad Ali

“Impossible is just a big word thrown around by small men who find it easier to live in the world they’ve been given than to explore the power they have to change it. Impossible is not a fact. It’s an opinion. Impossible is not a declaration. It’s a dare. Impossible is potential. Impossible is temporary. Impossible is nothing.” Muhammad Ali

Mission possible or impossible? Choose wisely.

If you are interested in how my wife and I help people like you transform their seemingly impossible odds into possibilities, visit Life Origami, to get our new book, The Lost Guru.

Over the course of my life, this is the sixth major ‘economic storm I have been a part of. If I had a client ask me what they should do, here are a few suggestions:

1. Assume nothing, question everything and examine your assumptions with reliable facts. Beware of making decisions based on fear, fiction or unfounded projections and judgments.
2. Be prepared to reinvent, re-engineer and reimagine everythng about your business. Ask, “Am I allowing fear and terror to define me or will I choose to use this major worldwide shift to become a catalyst to redefine and reinvent myself, my relationships and my career/business.”
3. Keep your expectations that things will return to normal, very low and with caution. Focus on keeping yourself and those you care for safe, secure and healthy.
4. Expect a litany of surprises, external influences and changes in culture, government and consumer behaviour. Preserve your finances and be clear about your spending intentions.
5. Communicate, communicate, communicate. Be straightforward, illuminate fluff and hyperbole from your marketing messages and tell the truth about your circumstances. Ask your customers, family and friends for constructive, fact based feedback.
6. Be clear about your expectations to maintain the status quo. Contemplate your current situation, consider the worst-case scenario you can conceptualize, then embrace the best-case scenario you can imagine. Then identify the gaps and build a bridge, bypass the obstacles or chart a new course.
7. Get clear about your vision and what you wish to create and build.
8. Look for opportunities that you might have missed or overlooked. Look for unmet needs in your community, customers and employees.
9. Get off your ass and get on your “ask.” Speak up and ask for what you need. Be assertive, speak the truth and no matter what happens, focus forward. Point yourself toward your dreams, desires and wishes.

Amethyst’s Practical Advice for Parents of Sick Kids That Is Relevant During Covid-19 Pandemic

My wife Amethyst spent years supporting parents of sick kids. The insights she gained from her experience with uncertain health of her loved ones include:

1. Know the facts and statistics. Knowing the truth about your situation or your loved one’s outlook, eliminates ambiguity and softens the impact of uncertainty.
2. Keeping up to date. Knowing how their or your illness or conditions are improving will help you focus forward. By staying up to date you gain prespective and a sense of control.
3. Stay connected. Be supportive and resist the urge to isolate or pull away from the ill or sick and don’t deny or avoid your emotions.
4. Ask for help if you’re feeling sad or depressed, talk to a friend or a nurse. Access people who have gone through similar challenges and ask then for tips, tricks and insights.
5. Don’t try to stay strong. It’s okay to be sad and trying to be strong isn’t good for you or them. Stay in touch with your feelings, don’t try and hide them.
6. Mindful we/they are alive. Make the most of what time you do have and remember, they are still alive. Remember, they are harnessing all their energies to get well and recover.
7. Support your family, friends and employees emotionally, physically and financially. Be real, give people permission to be real and ask for what they need. Be flexible and be an example by demonstrating self-care.
8. Self-care, maintain a regular sleeping and eating pattern. Feed your body and remember to rest and relax. Turn off, get some quiet time and down time.
9. Stay hopeful, it is the way it is now, it can only get better from here.
10. Simple gestures. Think of the people in your life and send a letter, make a home-made card or small, simple gift that demonstrates you are thinking of them.
11. Avoid thinking the worst. Be aware of your overactive imagination and fear. Focus on their odds of recovery. That is how you get through the emotional roller coaster. Stay out of the past and the future, focus on the present.
12. Maintain equilibrium in the household. Your home life can be an island of sanity and stability. Remember, the kids and other family members need attention, care and support too.
13. Ask family members to reach out and provide support and good wishes to your loved ones and yourself.
14. Experiment with creating some videos or audios, talk about everyday things and the future. Use your voice, play with technology and be light, don’t overdo the frivolity.
15. Sometimes the most supportive thing you can do is to be quiet and present when someone is sick or overwhelmed.
16. Practise compartmentalization. When you are at home, work or visiting a sick friend, be there now. Trust that the other people in your life will step in to provide support, help and intervene when needed.

This is a collaborative work between Greg and Amethyst Dickson, Co-Founders of Life Origami Corporation. You can read more about this topic and other roadblocks in our book, The Lost Guru: Uncover the mental habits that prevent you from Fully Inhabiting Your Life and accessing your intrinsic wisdom.