Speakers are feeling fearful right now, and to help ease that we're talking about how to thrive in a crisis. Joining us to talk about this unique time is Erick Rheam, our Director of Student Success at The Speaker Lab and also a well-respected speaker in his own right. On this episode of The Speaker Lab, we're going to help you deal with the COVID-19 crisis and future challenges you may face in the speaking industry. Erick lays out four points to mitigating the impact of any crisis as he learned during his time in the armed forces. 1. Secure the perimeter Ensure you and your family are safe. Engage in medical professionals and local authorities' recommended guidelines. Ensure you are following proper protocol for safe social distancing. Take stock of your finances. Finalize potential gigs. Continue reaching out for future gigs. 2. Evaluate your business. Now is the time to evaluate, learn, think and pause. Ask yourself questions like: How do I make money speaking? How will that change as a result of this crisis (and does it need to change)? What online courses can I promote? Can I work on that book I’ve wanted to write? What virtual training gigs can I secure? 3. Gain Perspective. Keep the big picture in mind. Try to limit your information and be careful of your sources. Practice gratitude. Opportunities will present themselves, look for them. Be flexible and be open to change. 4. Enjoy these moments. We are creating unprecedented memories now. Slow down, look around and take in the good. Be a good human: be patient and be kind. Journal your thoughts. Serve others. EPISODE RESOURCES The Successful Speaker, by Grant Baldwin Got questions? Send them in here Email me! Subscribe on iTunes, and leave us a rating or review Read show transcripts here