Watching the London Marathon last month was inspirational, so many people putting them selves through a gruelling experience, pushing their bodies beyond the levels most people think they’re capable of. Many making it harder for themselves by wearing heavy fancy dress costumes too! But so many of them doing it in the name of a worthy cause – a bereavement, a charity, something that effects or supports a loved one who’s seriously unwell. It was a real celebration of triumph in the face of adversity.
It made me think – would these people be taking part if they hadn’t been the victim of their awful circumstances? Not suggesting for one minute that they’re better off for having suffered their horrible situation, whatever that may be. But it has likely spurred them on to achieve things they may not have previously believed possible. That was the bit that really interested me.
We’re extremely fortunate to have been able to recruit and grow our team over the last 12 months, but many businesses are struggling, many hard working and talented people are finding themselves out of work. But are some of these companies coming out the other side leaner, meaner, scarred but more experienced as a result? Are the accidental freelancers finding their feet and carving out a more flexible, lucrative living? Or has it forced them to try something new, and step out of the comfort zone?
There isn’t always a happy ending of course (and unfortunately), but I would wager a lot have people that have been forced in to change are better for it, in one way or another.