Think of all the products that have been developed specifically in response to Covid. Every day I see something new that wasn’t there “before”: single-serve silverware dispensers, key-like tools to avoid touching, pens that suppress bacteria growth, Microban trays at the airport, and even color-coded wristbands to indicate your comfort with hugging.
In my innovation class, we’re reminded that most change that is successfully implemented starts with picking the right problem to solve. The companies and entrepreneurs who made the above products — and many more — began with filling a need created by the pandemic. They saw a bad situation and turned it into a good one (for them) by supplying items to address new issues.
Every downside has an upside for someone. Become that person who finds opportunity in what everyone else sees as a problem.
