Inspiring Zoom meetings

I can just hear your comments because there is a bit of grumbling about Zoom overload. There is no question: we are living and working in a very different environment. However, good for all of you who are forging ahead in spite of the forces working against us. Below are some thoughts that inspired me this week.

The Chamber’s Insurance Committee met after a short hiatus with the newly appointed Chair of the committee, Richard Whitbeck, President & CEO of Innovative Health Concepts. The committee was established nineteen years ago to work hand in hand with Chamber Insurance Trust, created by President, Steve Glick. Its purpose is to engage Connecticut Chambers in dealing with the cost of healthcare for businesses and individuals.

It was inspiring to listen to the comments on the importance and impact of this dedicated group of insurance agents.

“I’ve made good partnerships through this Chamber committee.”

“This committee helps me stay informed by hearing from specialists in the field.”

“Love the meetings because we see what everyone is doing, hear about possible solutions and learn so much from each other. We are competitors yet this is unique in that we help each other.”

An outstanding group of dedicated healthcare providers met this week at the Health Care Council chaired by Kevin O’Connell, President & CEO of Geer Village Senior Community in Canaan. The Council meets monthly with a guest and a roundtable discussion valuable to all attendees.

The keynote was Robert Reier representing McCall Center for Behavioral Health. He is the newly appointed Assistant for Community Health. His focus is to communicate the support and resources available to everyone during the pandemic. He shared these methods of coping with the stress and panic that seems to accom

pany COVID-19.

Limit the consumption of media and news.

Get a good night’s sleep, following the same schedule.

Follow a healthy routine, with meals, exercise and sleep.

Avoid major life decisions if possible, because there are already situations that are stress related.

Know that major changes may occur during this time affecting your job, career, home, family and colleagues.

Here’s to Zoom meetings that inspire us and give us the strength to forge ahead.

JoAnn Ryan is President & CEO of the NW CT Chamber of Commerce. She can be reached by email: joann@nwctchamberof commerce.org or phone: 860-482-6586.