Like many companies relegated to working from home during the Covid-19 pandemic, Keller Knapp Realty has been having weekly video calls on Zoom — to check in with each other, to update on what’s happening in the market, to make sure we’re following updated Best Practices in working with our clients.
During this week’s call, though, Principle Broker, Weslee Knapp, gave us a lot to ponder in terms of how we cope with the new normal during this time. It is believed that Shakespeare wrote both Macbeth and King Lear during a retreat in the early 1600’s — a retreat to get away from the bubonic plague, and also, some forced “downtime” because theaters had been closed to avoid large gatherings of people. Does this sound familiar? A 17th century equivalent of a Shelter in Place Order, right?
In any event, the point here is that Shakespeare accomplished a lot during his “downtime”. With all the death, worry, stress and anxiety associated with the plague, he was able to complete two of the greatest plays of all time. So, what’s your Macbeth?
What greatness can we achieve during this unprecedented time in our lives? Of course, what is considered “greatness” is subjective and can be defined in any number of ways. Do you appreciate the value of spending more time with family? Do you stop to really notice and enjoy the spring weather? Do you write a book or blog? Do you exercise more, cook more, become a healthier version of yourself? Do you learn a new skill? Complete a home improvement project? Finish a work project that has been hanging over your head forever?
At Keller Knapp Realty, our team is focused on how we can continue to help our buyers and sellers during this time…in a way that is safe and follows best practices for our industry. We’re all learning new technology, implementing new systems, adapting to quickly changing protocols. It forces each of us to reinvent how we do things. To get out of our rut and implement needed changes that we will continue long after the Covid-19 threat has passed.
For me, learning to create better online experiences for listings has been paramount. The technology has been there, but had a steep learning curve and/or a hefty price tag to hire someone to do it. Learning new tools and new ways of doing these things is something that will become part of my marketing plan for sellers. And, I’m really excited about it!
From a more personal perspective, I’m holding myself accountable to a scheduled routine each day. Time blocking (for both personal and business tasks) is important and something a LOT of us struggle with. I think it becomes even more important to have structure in your day when you’re at Home. All. The. Time. Making time each day for exercise, cooking healthy meals, reading the news, talking with my husband….all important things that were often be missed. Equally important are prioritizing and scheduling work projects, blocking out time to get them done each day. Kids, pets, laundry, Netflix…all these things are distractions when you’re at home. Having a routine and sticking to it is a great new habit to learn during this time!
So, back to the original question. What’s my Macbeth? I mean, what’s the thing that will be a standout project or accomplishment during the Covid-19 pandemic? I plan to finally finish much overdue landscaping projects. Yard work is a personal passion, and, sadly, one that often gets put on the back burner. My friends and neighbors will appreciate that Stoney Point Park (in Ormewood Park) is one of these projects…and I have grand plans for it over the next several weeks!
What about you? Whether you have lofty goals, or just want to take time to slow down and appreciate the little things more, how will you spend this time? In a time of worry, sadness, anxiety and isolation….what will you do to make this time extraordinary for you, your family and your community?
Here’s to wishing that each of you find your Macbeth. And, have the positive mental space to achieve it. I’d love to hear all about it — Zoom coffee, lunch or happy hours are always appreciated!
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