Tomorrow for the first time in 105 years, Anzac Day will be remembered and commemorated online.  As we come together virtually to remember the 8,000 lives lost in the Gallipoli campaign, WW1, and the many more in the wars and conflicts that followed.

And we find ourselves in a completely different time, with a very different enemy. 

Socially isolating in our homes and not able to travel, even across state boundaries, the contrasts are not lost on me.  I recall a popular meme going around:

“our grandparents were asked to go to war to keep us safe, we are asked to stay home and watch Netflix, get a grip people.”

For many of us, this is our first major interruption.  At once on a local and global scale.  And the economic impact is far reaching.

Earlier this week, as we sat in social isolation, doing puzzles as a family, I thought about a conversation I had the day earlier.

I was asked by a Millennial how I can possibly understand the plight of a young person, with no income, in today’s pandemic.

Here’s how.

I write on financial insulation because I’ve sadly earned the right. This is not an initiation anyone wants, but having come through it, here’s what I learned:

There will be winners and losers in this pandemic. Businesses and organisations that adapt quickly and extend their online offerings, and those that haven’t got that luxury as the whole industry is stood down.

The Pink Hard Hat is a philosophy of protection, insulation and intention around money and business.

The rug was pulled from under me when my husband left for the Iraq War in 2003.

Then again in the floods of 2011.

Then when my builder went broke in 2016.

And then this pandemic which doesn’t distinguish between age, gender, education or expertise.

But here’s the thing:

Mindset’s not a lofty idea when coupled with action.

Our response to how we evolve through this is in our control.

Remembering to call upon neighbours and friends and see if they need support.

Beyond that, diversification and multiple income streams is a prudent response to life’s economic interruptions. 

So I understand the shock.
I understand the pivot and I understand the need to up-skill quickly, to feel more secure.

And I extend that invitation to those looking for guidance to grow beyond this.
If not, I’m simply here as a neighbour, sounding board and friend.