Back in 2019 as part of a collective New Year’s Resolution, my family established a nightly dinner ritual where we went around the table — or sometimes a video call from whatever city I was in at the time due to work travel — and shared one thing from the day we were thankful for.
It helped us to stay connected and spur conversation about our day, and it allowed us to shift our mindset to think of something positive. Sometimes, especially on trying days, even the small things were a success to share.
We wrote down each of those “thankfuls” on small pieces of paper and placed them in a jar to read the next year.
Well, 2020 turned out to be a year unlike any other.
As someone who was frequently on the road for trade shows, industry events and fleet visits, all of a sudden being grounded for nine months — and working from my home office, no less — has been quite the change. I’ve become fairly adept at attending webcast press conferences and planning out virtual trade show schedules. Still, nothing beats the face-to-face connection with others.
There are things that will return to some semblance of normal once we can safely gather in person again. But in the meantime, adjustments to processes have evolved.
Fleets have implemented safety measures and adopted contactless workflows. Suppliers ramped up additional remote training options. Manufacturers have continued to research, develop, and launch products. Life has gone on, and business has continued.
Unexpected changes
The industry anticipated a softening going into this year after a slowdown in 2019, coming off of record equipment orders and builds. While a slight downturn was anticipated, a complete shutdown was not.
Instead, vast parts of the U.S. closed down completely in an attempt to “flatten the curve” and reduce the spread of the coronavirus. A shock to the economy, the abrupt recession and subsequent shift in day-to-day life this year ultimately highlighted the necessity of our industry.
Essential operations that included the movement of goods needed to continue. Manufacturers like Ford and Mack shifted manufacturing operations from vehicles to create personal protective equipment. Fleets shifted operations to deliver groceries, medical supplies, and coveted toilet paper. Commercial drivers dedicated countless hours behind the wheel to get loads where they needed to go. In short, our industry — as it often does — stepped up to get the job done.
Once we determined we were in this for the long haul, everyone started acknowledging the “new normal.” This has meant a messy mix of balancing personal and professional responsibilities, adjusting to different processes, finding new ways to connect with friends and colleagues, anticipating sudden changes on a moment’s notice, and generally accepting things won’t be the same. But, a drastic shift can also be the catalyst to make lasting and meaningful changes.
After all, according to Charles Darwin, it is not the strongest or the most intelligent who will survive, but those who can best manage change.
At dinner this year, my family will have has gone through and read those “thankfuls” from 2019 as we reminisce and think back to life before a pandemic. But, it’s also a great reminder that change starts first with your own mindset.
As we reflect on this year, which has truly been like none other, it’s important to acknowledge and evaluate the challenges and set up a game plan for the future.
