“Continuity gives us roots; change gives us branches, letting us stretch and grow and reach new heights.” —Pauline R. Kezer
Change is inevitable.
Seasons change. Technology changes. Processes change. Leaders change. People change.
Sooner or later, everything changes.
Presently, my life seems to be filled with change. I have the opportunity to go with the flow or resist what is happening.
I typically embrace change. I happen to believe that beautiful things develop out of change.
Change is evolution. We either evolve or become extinct.
One of the changes that I am excited about is with Toastmasters. There is a new educational curriculum called Pathways. I have the honor of being a Pathways Guide.
My responsibility is to introduce the program to various clubs and help them implement the new system. I conducted my first presentation a few days ago and faced mixed reviews.
This wasn’t surprising. Whenever change is introduced at least three personas emerge … you have the excited, the resisters and the skeptics.
The excited ones immediately see the benefits of change and are eager to move forward with the process.
The excited ones understand the value of change and identify tangible gains for embracing change. The excited ones also promote the advantages of change and encourage others to be open to change.
The resisters, however, do not like change and view it as a loss.
The resisters often find fault in the change and look for reasons why it will fail. The resisters are comfortable with things just as they are and the way they have always been.
The skeptics are in between the excited and the resisters. Skeptics are willing to go along with change, yet are not completely sold on its benefits or value.
Skeptics have a “wait and see” disposition.
When introducing change, it is important to have and communicate a clear vision. As a change agent you will also need to be understanding of the people involved in the process.
Change is an emotional experience. You will need to recognize the emotional reaction in others, quickly identify their triggers and help ease their concerns.
Change is inevitable. Developing skills to lead change is a worthy pursuit.
To learn more about leading or embracing change, check out these sources:
- How To Lead Change: 3 Simple Steps
- How to Lead Your Team Through Change
- 5 Ways to Embrace Change at Work and in Life
What is your change persona? Please share your thoughts in the comments section, I’d love to hear from you.
