Have you ever found yourself in a position where change was imminent, regardless of how you felt about it?
You might have felt stress for days, weeks or even months as you are facing the unknown in unfamiliar territory. When leaders announce change, the audience doesn’t hear anything else. They start to panic and think, “What’s going on here? Is this for growth or downsizing? Will I still have a job?” They fail to see change as opportunity and they don’t embrace the positives. The same can happen when change is affecting your leadership role. With this in mind, here’s how to keep your perspective positive as things shift around you.
1. Accept that change is constant
Accepting that change is inevitable can help you cope with it with less stress. John F. Kennedy once said, “The one unchangeable certainty is that nothing is certain or unchangeable.” Recognising this and coming to terms with it will make life easier.
2. Change means progress
Everything in life moves forward. If we don’t change, we risk being left behind. Change signifies progress on some level. Leaders who don’t adapt to change or change themselves run the risk of becoming obsolescent themselves. Remember the camera company Kodak? They ignored digital advancements and suffered for it.
3. Change causes ambiguity
Change brings unknown elements. Effectively handling ambiguity helps prepare you for future changes. Understanding this will help you navigate uncertain times.
4. Look for opportunities
Change can bring opportunities, even if it’s hard to see them in the midst of transition. Shifting your focus from fear to opportunity can bring excitement and energy during a workplace or industry evolution.
5. Change can be transformative
Changes can open up aspects of life you hadn’t imagined, transforming your experience at work or home for the better. Leaders often find that embarking on change can trigger a positive transformation for them and their teams or businesses.
6. Many options become available
A whole new world of opportunities can open up when change happens. Taking stock, identifying options, and making informed choices are crucial if you want to thrive during times of change.
7. Change can spice up your life
Adding a bit of spice to life can bring positive energy. Applying this attitude to change can make your approach more dynamic and enjoyable.
Think about cooking at home; some spice can change the entire dish, in a good way!
8. You can adjust to change
You’ve experienced countless changes in your life and adjusted to them. Giving yourself time to work through change will help you thrive in new circumstances.
Things will work out… back yourself… you can achieve so much.
Leadership means embracing change with a new mindset
Instead of resisting change, shift your mindset to becoming comfortable with the uncomfortable. Change can be daunting, but keep in mind that it also offers new opportunities.
Many of you are going through or about to embark on significant changes, especially in today’s quick-moving world, where the latest technology and AI are constantly shifting the status quo. If you or your leadership team need some help to manage change, contact us and arrange a strategy session.
