Oslo 01.12.20

​

As Christmas approaches, and in an especially dark November, it seems that my summary of what I've learned this year won't be quite like usual. Here are 8 things I'm reflecting on after 8 months of pandemic, with a glimmer of light at the end of the tunnel and plenty of creative energy.

​

#1 We'll do it like we always have" is no longer the right answer. Hurrah! Because even though life will normalize, this new normal will likely be different from the old one. Creativity is essential for thinking differently and not falling back on the same old solutions.

 

#2 Technology saves lives. We're all crossing our fingers and washing our hands while waiting for technology to give us a vaccine so life can return to normal. But creativity and technology are also part of the solution. The fact that life has been able to continue as normally as it has is thanks to technology allowing us to be social, be entertained, buy what we need, work and earn money, learn new things, and so much more.

​

#3 Enthusiasm is essential. Efficiency is nice and all, and digital solutions have helped us move much of our daily operations and production to new channels. But efficiency isn't everything. The feeling, energy, and enthusiasm I get from experiencing something together with others isn't the same through a screen. Not in private life, and not at work either. I don't think I'm alone in appreciating creating together with others more after this.

 

#4 Necessity is the mother of invention. When life gives you lemons, make lemonade. There's wisdom in old sayings, and the ability to see opportunities in a crisis has proven to be a valuable trait. Creativity is an investment in the future, not a cost.

​

#5 Those of us who never loved nine-to-five life won. I hope the time spent on overcrowded buses during rush hour is over. And that measuring value creation no longer needs to be about counting hours. Good ideas and useful insights don't necessarily appear at the office during office hours - I think we in the creative industry have something to teach others here.

 

#6 Always have a Plan C. Even though the virus anxiety will hopefully loosen its grip eventually, we've learned that strange things can happen. It's not about constantly being in full preparedness mode, but about reflecting on how external circumstances can affect our plans and solutions.

​

#7 It's become acceptable to talk about feelings. We've become a bit more human, even at work. After being invited into colleagues' and clients' living rooms, we've seen that behind all the "work faces" there are children, kitchen counters, and houseplants. Checking in over coffee and talking about how we're doing has become something we do. Psychological safety is an important prerequisite for daring to think differently.

​

#8 It is possible to change habits. Right now, I'm looking forward to the next time I'll stand in the security line at Gardermoen airport, finally traveling again. But I don't think I'll ever do a day trip to London for a meeting again. And that's good - for me, the economy, and the planet 😊