P2P

2 P E E R T O P E E R : I L T A ' S Q U A R T E R L Y M A G A Z I N E | S P R I N G 2 0 2 1 F R O M T H E C E O T he theme of this issue is thriving in a post-pandemic world. When we developed the editorial calendar for 2021, I frankly expressed concern about the term "post-pandemic." Was that being overly optimistic? Disrespectful? As I write in in early March of 2021, the "post-pandemic" world is in sight. Accelerating vaccinations as well as continued restrictions in many jurisdictions, are allowing us to move beyond nostalgia for 2019 and toward gathering together – as families, in schools, in workplaces, as peers – again in the second half of 2021. Being with those dear to us may never feel as sweet again and will never again be taken for granted. And we have announced ILTACON 2021 as a hybrid event with some ILTAns in-person in Las Vegas and some joining digitally! So, the post-pandemic world is in sight... Now let's return to the question of thriving. I confess that I love to start with definitions. Merriam-Webster.com provides three definitions of "thrive." Two are particularly relevant here: The first is "to grow vigorously; flourish." We are hearing about pent-up demand in the global economy. Many law firms and large companies experienced notable financial success in 2020. I think our more important conversation is around meaning #3 for thrive: "to progress toward or realize a goal despite or because of circumstances" (emphasis is mine). Will thriving in a post-pandemic world be in the context of despite or because of? When I think of 2020, it is hard not to focus on despite. Some organizations reported financial success despite working from home, despite a lack of in-person collaboration, and despite the structure of the traditional in-office model. However, our mantra at ILTA over the past year has been to think about because of. In order to flourish in 2021 and beyond, we need to look at the lessons learned – and the progress achieved – because of the situation into which we were all forced. One of the most powerful tools for any leader is the Start/Stop/Continue analysis. Looking at a project, an initiative, or even a year objectively, we can review what we achieved and make lists (yes, I like lists – The Checklist Manifesto is a must-read). Based on what we have learned, what will we Start doing that we have not done before (or recently), what will we Stop doing, and what will we Continue doing (often the ignored part of the equation). Joy Heath Rush joy@iltanet.org T H E R E ' S M O R E O N L I N E ! For more great insight on ILTA's CEO, listen along online as she sits down for another CEO podcast! listen here »

• Cover