Like you, I’ve spent the past few weeks glued to the news and social media. I’m concerned about all kinds of things, from the safety of my family to the global economy. These are scary times. Still, I’ve faced adversity before. We all have, right? The conditions may have been different, but we’ve all developed tools to survive challenging times. I’d like to offer a few thoughts, given my experience, to help work through these challenges together.

First, adjust your focus. Instead of dwelling on fear and uncertainty, focus on what you can do to impact the situation. I remember a lesson from Lieutenant General Hal Moore, a leader I studied before my first deployment to Iraq as a Lieutenant.

Three strikes and you’re not out! There is always one more thing you can do to influence any situation in your favor.

Applying it to COVID-19, there are tangible actions you can take to positively influence the situation and the disposition of others around you. Here are a few examples, both in and out of work:

1. Help capture the digital standard operating procedures your organization is inventing right now

2. Volunteer to deliver groceries to retirees in the area

3. Take the time to the time to explain social distancing to your children – let them know how they are making a difference

There are thousands and thousands of actions you can take to positively impact the situation or the disposition of others around you.

Next, remember you are a leader to someone, and they are watching how you react. Many of us forget that rank and formal authority are not the only sources of influence. You are, whether you realize it or not, a leader to countless peers, family members, and friends. As a member of the military, these people look to your example. Be the leader they need in this challenging time. This isn’t about denying or downplaying the situation – that’s bad leadership! It is about helping others focus on what they can control. To be there for them. To hear them.

Finally, remember that you are not alone. We are, quite literally, in this together. Though you may feel isolated, the world has never been more interconnected with Facebook, Twitter, and other means of digital interface. But this connection can also bring out the worst in us, amplifying the most vile attributes society has to offer. Don’t accept the fallacy that this sensational behavior is the norm. Instead, use technology as a tool to spread positive reinforcement. Seek out friends and family and schedule a FaceTime or Facebook Messenger session. Ask how people are doing and let them know you’re there for them. If you don’t think there’s anyone in the world who is interested in your problems you are wrong. Shoot me a message and we can talk through it.

Reflect on these ideas as you prepare for the coming week. Things will continue to get worse before they get better. Death and sickness will spread, impacting us in a variety of ways. There are many facets of this crisis we can not control, so focus your time and energy on things you can influence. These are challenging times, but we will get through them together. Tomorrow, the sun will rise.