Covid-19 crisis offers best chance to pick up skills, venture into unfamiliar territory

The saying “when the going gets tough, the tough gets going” cannot be truer in such trying times.

It is at a time like this that we take out our defensive suits.

Perhaps we have grown too comfortable with our jobs and lifestyles.

We should seize this chance to relook our finances. We should distinguish needs from wants to prolong our finite resources.

Could there be means to earn a passive income, such as renting out a spare room or taking on gigs like tutoring, fixing things in homes, driving a cab or walking a busy neighbour’s dog for a fee? 

We should not underestimate human ingenuity to make ends meet.

For many, it has been years since we updated our resumes. Much has changed. Resume formats have become short and crisp. Hirers seek out applicants by keywords.

Even knowing where to look for jobs has turned “smart”. The digital revolution is continuous and irreversible. The fear of information technology (IT) is real, especially for people in their 40s and 50s. We should conquer fear with action by registering for introductory IT courses with the help of subsidies. They may also offer opportunities for networking with the like-minded to start social enterprises or land the next job.

Many may be unsure about the skills with which to equip themselves. The internet offers immense resources for learning, which may take the form of words, graphics and videos. Through persistence, one may be able to spruce up a skill or learn a new one.

After spending years on a routine, perhaps it is time to veer into something new by leveraging transferable skills and knowledge acquired over the years.

Human interaction skills are always needed. Could these be made more salient by moving into frontline positions, while still tapping one’s technical skills?

It may be the best time to reinvent oneself. We are multifaceted. We may venture into new positions in unfamiliar companies and industries to test our fit. Some may return to school to pick up missed diplomas. We will be surprised what refreshing change this may bring.

We should not lose hope as all storms shall pass. We should prepare for that moment now.

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