As the days of this pandemic stretch on, we are all finding ways to manage the ever-shifting landscape. There is no playbook for this, and we are making up the rules as we go along. Here are 5 things that will help Solo PR Pros get through this time.

Kindness. It may sound trite, but you need to remember to be kind to yourself and others. Emotions are high as everyone is dealing with the fallout from the pandemic in different ways. While the virus is universal, we are all impacted differently, and we all have different resources to deal with it. Some have experienced loss. Others have the stress of caring for loved ones, and still others may have taken a financial impact. Extend kindness, even when you don’t receive it in return. 

Flexibility. As the days have melted into one another, our work schedules may look different each day. None of this is normal and you may have found that you need to take more breaks or work different hours. Your go-to productivity moves may not be working during this period, it is ok. If you need to work split shifts to get things done, do it. If you need to sleep later to be productive, don’t feel guilty. And if you are working off hours, that is ok too.

Community. Yes, we solo PR Pros are largely accustomed to working on our own, but this is not a normal work environment. We don’t have the things that used to break up our days (even the annoying things we complained about!). As John Donne noted, “no man is an island.” Now more than ever, we need connection and community. We cannot gather in person but technology allows us to be apart but together. Join peer groups, participate in zoom group calls, engage in chats. Don’t attempt to go through this time on your own. People need people.

Celebrations. These are not fun times, but we need a release. We have to tenaciously pursue joy even in the midst of this crisis. Go to that online concert or dance party; attend a zoom birthday party or participate in a drive by birthday parade. We must continue to live life. 

Business Development. Some solos have had contracts paused or cancelled, but you have to keep moving forward. Network, nurture relationships, and work on your business. Do not sit on the sidelines waiting for this to pass. 

Life has forever changed but I am hopeful that we can emerge from this stronger than ever. 

Photo by Heather Ford on Unsplash