Looking back, what should have been done was to quarantine all international arrivals (both people and cargo) early on, starting from January. The quarantine wouldn't end until they either test negative or until enough time has passed that they are no longer infectious. Aside from a few airline, shipping, and cruise industry bailouts, life would have gone on as usual. But of course, hindsight is 20/20.
Looking forward, the only way out of this without a cure or vaccine would be free, widespread, and rapid testing. Anything else would result in mass deaths, economic collapse, or both. If you tested negative recently, you'd be free to enter crowded bars, restaurants, stadiums, public transit, and any other densely populated area without a mask. If not, you'd only be allowed into grocery stores and would have to wear a mask at all times.
