One way to fight the coronavirus pandemic is through active participation to shift social norms. In speaking-up for safe action we shape the malleable definition of what society deems as accepted behavior.

We are influencers, for the best (and, sometimes, for the worst). When you cave-in and go to a birthday party, or hug a friend you haven't seen in months, or don't wear a mask in public—you’re expressing that you’re ok with unsafe behavior.

Bad decisions affect more than your health, and the health of those around you. When you take part in (or allow) unsafe actions, you are negatively influencing social norms. You are telling others that taking unsafe actions is ok. You are reenforcing behaviors that that will perpetuate the virus.

To end the coronavirus pandemic, we must takes actions that go against every evolutionary-belonging-grain in our bodies. When we deny proximity and touch, it feels wrong. It feels like rejection. And rejection hurts. But it doesn't need to.

We need to normalize action that puts long-term global health on the same plane as short-term individual comfort. 

We need to boldly redefine how we convey and accept love and care, to gently wrap the truth in explicit compassion and mutual understanding. 

The entire world is adapting and shifting. With both grace and conviction, we can reframe how we say "no".

We have a choice.

Think about the many people who have suffered—or are currently suffering. Think about the influence you have on others. Think about how your behaviors shift (or solidify) social norms. 

By making the promise to be a leader within your social circle you are committing to help shift social norms. This is how we fight COVID-19.

Are you already a positive influencer, and curious why you should make the promise?