Put Your Mask on First: Building Hope

Even though most of us haven’t been flying much in the past eight months, we’re all familiar with the safety guidelines shared by flight attendants before an airplane takes off. In the event of an emergency where supplemental oxygen is needed, a mask will drop from the overhead cabin. You should put on your own mask before helping children, the disabled, or anyone needing assistance. And know that the oxygen is flowing, even if the plastic bag doesn’t inflate.

This safety precaution of putting your mask on first is life supporting when the aircraft is in the midst of a crisis. And it provides timely advice as we move into a winter season marked by a dramatic increase in the number of COVID-19 cases, along with significant political transition. It’s especially good advice for leaders to follow in helping their teams survive and thrive. (more…)