So..it’s been…well…so many months I’ve lost count.
In many ways..this pandemic has been most unfortunate for a large number of Americans. That’s not to say there aren’t exceptions to this. Some have discovered that their idea (which may have started out as a marginal venture) has become the thing that has kept us connected..calm..sane..or all of the above.
Here are the ideas or businesses that have sustained us so far:
HONORABLE MENTION: Drive-In Theaters
What’s old..is new and trendy again. It’s going out to enjoy a feature film with social distancing built in. Brilliant! Don’t look now..but I’ve seen instances of churches getting in on the act. If you can’t walk in to a sanctuary. Combine a preacher, an elevated platform, a radio frequency and you can have church in your car. You don’t even have to pass the collection plate. One word: PayPal! (or is that 2 words?)
5. Masks
This is — of course — obvious. We now understand how important these items can be to keep COVID at bay. Just try to find one on Amazon (or other places) now. Good luck.
4. Hand Sanitizer
Again — obvious. It has now become a bit easier to come by. At the start of the pandemic..when you went to order this product..you were likely informed that your shipment would arrive TWO MONTHS LATER. Welcome to Supply and Demand 101. One of the better stories I’ve seen has been about alcohol distilleries changing their production course to make hand sanitizer when it was in short supply.
3. Seamless/Doordash/GrubHub/Uber Eats..and the rest
If you’re a restaurant trying to survive during this pandemic..you are most likely using these services to create your new business model. I was told by the wisest person I know (my wife Karen) that the “new normal” eateries are adapting to will have to involve mastering the art of take-out and delivery. If you can get food from your restaurant kitchen to my table and have it taste like I’m sitting and enjoying it in your establishment…you can be darn sure I’ll be back.
2. Wine Subscription Services
Yeah..you’ve done it. I know you have. If you can’t get to the “Red Dot” or the “ABC” store (you Southern folks know what I’m talking about)..then the next best thing is to have someone ship your wine to you. Get out those “Olivia Pope” wine glasses (fans of the TV series Scandal get that). If you’re working from home..or quarantining..you may just need that drink on occasion.
- Zoom
What was once only the method to connect off-site branches for the company-wide meeting has kept families connected and in contact. It was the thing we needed most in this necessary period of social isolation. If we can’t be there in person..then virtual has become the next best thing.
The pandemic has changed us..and our habits..perhaps for good.
Now..if you’ll excuse me…there’s a nice Moscato and a pair of chilled glasses calling Karen and me.
WELCOME TO MY WORLD!! 