We have all asked the question at some time or another – why do things have to change?
Just when we have felt comfortable, confident, and somewhat in control of what is happening in our world there is a shift, restructure… pandemic… and life as we know it is disrupted.
Photo courtesy of Jay Castor – Unsplash
Typically, our response to this can be negative, initially at least. This response is explained in The Kubler-Ross Change Curve (also known as the Five Stages of Grief), originally developed by Swiss American Psychiatrist Elisabeth Kubler-Ross. The Kubler-Ross model describes that when we experience an imposed change (especially one we have not anticipated) we go through a process of Shock, Denial, Frustration and Depression before we can begin to Engage with the change and seek out solutions.
While we may not be able to control the change…we can influence how long it may take for us (and our team) to adapt and respond.
When we live and/or work in an environment where we have low levels of change and low levels of growth; any change can be debilitating. After time in hibernation, our ‘change muscles’ become weak and our capacity for growth flabby.
“When we least expect it, life sets us a challenge to test our courage and willingness to change; at such a moment, there is no point in pretending that nothing has happened or in saying that we are not yet ready. The challenge will not wait. Life does not look back.” — Paulo Coelho
Instead of seeking to preserve what we have, it is significantly more beneficial to be open to the opportunity that change, and disruption presents.
Take everyday opportunities to nurture your personal and professional capability for growth; and stretch those change muscles so you are ready. Encourage your capacity for change.
Growth and Change - A combination for success
Be relevant
Without some movement, we become stale and bored; our work is less interesting, we may become half-hearted or disengaged with our work - as we can do it without much thought. While the quality of our work may still be adequate, it is only adequate as measured by “yesterday’s measures”. Today and tomorrow, our customers and clients (and therefore our leaders) expectations will likely have changed – even if they may not know it yet.
Without attention to change, our competitors (internal and/or external) will soon pass us by, any little difference sees us left behind in their wake.
Don’t allow yourself or your team stagnate. Generate a vitality to what you do – rediscover your why, engage with your customers, clients and stakeholders and be active in the role you play in their world.
Be change ready
I am not suggesting that you change for change’s sake – but I would encourage you to be prepared.
Whether personally or professionally, motion is necessary to keep us relevant.
A pond without movement becomes lifeless and stale… but even here, there is opportunity.
Be a lily in that pond. Take time to ensure you and your team are learning and growing, it means you are investing in the growth and change muscles you will need to take the next step… whatever that ends up being for you.
Reach out if you would like support to step into growth and change with confidence.
Keep well,
Vicki
My business is helping you with yours…
If you would like further information or to arrange some support in building this skill please don’t hesitate to contact me. I look forward to helping you build your success your way.
Yours in success,
Vicki
