Why The Design Industry Must Remain Optimistic
Author:Lindsey ShookFounder of Andrew Joseph PR, a full service communications firm, Andrew Joseph has worked in the design industry for over twenty years. Here he shares some positive thoughts during this time of uncertainty that will inspire us all to keep making life beautiful.
Everyone in every industry is in crisis mode about life and business and how we move forward during and after this pandemic. Aside from worrying about our health, we can all agree that COVID-19 has created serious economic issues, especially for small entrepreneurs that work in the architecture and design industries. With major industry events being canceled and gatherings of all sizes ceasing to a halt for the foreseeable future, there is an undeniable impact. But what if there is a bright side?
When in need of rejuvenation, we seek out shelters in calming spaces most often designed by experts who know how to visually satisfy our souls. Whether it be at a spa, on the beach or in the mountains, we know these spaces will have a profoundly positive effect on our wellbeing. Our nervous system is greatly affected by our surrounding environment. We respond to this disruption of life and fear, whether we know it or not, with the production of stress hormones which no one needs during a health crisis.
So while there is a serious, short-term impact, there can also be a long-term benefit. While speaking with my friend Ann Feldstein she said, “With all these people sequestered at home for the next two to three weeks, it is going to inspire people to improve their homes.” And that is where the glimmer of hope lies for our community. People will be spending so much time at home, they will instinctually want to improve their surroundings and more than likely seek guidance from a professional.
Now is not only the time to cherish your loved ones more, but to evaluate your business and the long term goals. Reach out to your clients and vendors to show your support and discuss how you will get through this together. It’s time to embrace your home, think about how your home influences your well being, be kind to yourself, be good to others and most of all, do good for the world.
I end with this passage that I was reminded of while listening to the New York Times’s The Daily from On Living in an Atomic Age by author C.S. Lewis. “If we are all going to be destroyed by an atomic bomb, let that bomb when it comes find us doing sensible and human things – praying, working, teaching, reading, listening to music, bathing the children, playing tennis, chatting to our friends over a pint and a game of darts – not huddled together like frightened sheep and thinking about bombs. They may break our bodies (a microbe can do that) but they need not dominate our minds.”
Stay positive and stay safe. – Andrew Joseph
