"It is not necessary to change. Survival is not mandatory."
-Dr. W.
Edwards Deming
Change is a unique and powerful word. It has the
ability to baffle our minds and instill fear in our hearts. At the same time
change amazes us with the myriad of opportunities it can create. You see,
change is a paradox. It transforms and makes different, and yet it often
yields stability.
Our bodies change glucose into energy to
ensure our survival. Corporations use change-making decisions to survive
in the marketplace. If we can understand the critical role change plays
in survival, then why is it still so difficult to accept change in the workplace,
in the classroom, in our lives? Consider these excuses for resistance:
"My
needs are already met, so why should I change now?"
"I have invested
a lot of time and energy to get where I am. Why should I want to move on?"
"It's
easier to stay here than it is to move forward."
"I don't understand
why others want me to change, so I don't trust them."
It is common
and understandable that people fear the unknown and, to many, change is
very much associated with the unknown. When enacting change, listen to
the rationale behind the resistance - there may be a valid argument to be
made in opposition to the proposed change. Empathize with the resistance,
reassuring the resisters that you understand their concern. Finally,
communicate the benefits of the proposed change and ensure that the logic
behind the decision to change is understood by all. Whenever possible make
the process of change transparent, open for discussion, and rewarding
for all who embrace it.
