The year is 1977. A young small business employee comfortably works away at his established family business. Then, a chance meeting with a recruiter. He’s given an offer to join a startup developing exciting new technology against a powerful incumbent. He hesitates. Why leave a familiar role and known safety to join an unfamiliar boss with an overambitious mission?

Suddenly, the family business he knew so well ceases to exist. Tragically. By unforeseen circumstances. He is left without a job or family. The new startup role and a very different reality becomes his default path. His life changed in an instant.

This first week of May is an appropriate time to reflect on Luke Skywalker’s rise from the humblest of employment beginnings. Besides, people in tech LOVE Star Wars. In a time of struggle he embraced an epic journey across the galaxy that launched one of the greatest comeback stories and startup victories of all time.

At his lowest and loneliest moment, Luke chose hope. And he’s fictional! Imagine what you could do untethered by technology that is now 40+ years old!

Today there are a lot of anxieties, fears, and unknowns across the startup ecosystem. People are nervous about their jobs, their livelihoods, and the road ahead. Change is a constant in the life of a manager. Conditions shift, often suddenly. This is how it goes. It can feel low and lonely.

As we turn the calendar to May, here is an idea for all those out there worried about the future. In the absence of comfortable safety, what about choosing to feel hopeful?

• What if this time brings some colleagues closer together, when they’re far apart?
• What if we continue to spend less time commuting and more time with our families?
• What if there is more time for special projects to help move our careers forward?
• What if we gain a little more perspective and are kinder to one another?
• What if we’re on the cusp of a major wave of scientific research that could cure multiple diseases?
• What if this is the best time to be alive in all of human history?
• What if?

We’re feeling hopeful this week with the launch of our Middling Management community. Our goal is to bring together friends and colleagues to share learnings, explore challenges, entertain and support one another in management.

On this first week of May, we’re choosing to feel hopeful for the recovery ahead. We hope the same for you.