Lessons From Living and Working Through COVID

I will say this: I appreciate being my age. I appreciate the diverse work experiences that have shaped me. They’ve given me a way of processing what’s in front of me, of predicting the next steps, of knowing what tools are needed to stay on track. They’ve also taught me the importance of holding myself accountable—and, when I’m in charge, holding others accountable too.

Living and working through COVID was one of those defining chapters. It taught me lessons I’ll never forget: the value of structure, the necessity of clear communication, the importance of consistency, and the strength that comes from a team moving in the same direction. We all had to stretch, adapt, and care for one another while following strict guidelines. It wasn’t easy, but it gave us a framework for safety and trust.

Today, I find myself watching the gaps where those lessons aren’t being applied. The structure isn’t there, the communication isn’t steady, and accountability often falls through the cracks. What I know for sure is this: the lessons are there if people choose to learn from them. And I carry those lessons with me, using them as reminders of what true leadership and teamwork should look