Ch-ch-ch-changes: How do you deal?
Posted on : 07-12-2010 | By : Shannon Otto | In : general leadership, professional growth
Tags: changes, dealing with change, leadership, MemberClicks, priotizing, small-staff association
4
How do you react to change?
Do you roll with the flow and take things as they come? Or do you resist? Do you actively create change in your organization or do you avoid it?
Personally, I thrive on change. Boredom sets in if things remain stagnant for too long and I get antsy, trying to find a way to mix things up.
But not everyone prefers things to change. It’s not easy. It’s easy to be complacent and get comfortable and settle into habits.
No matter how you deal with change, as a leader within your organization, you’ve probably experienced it one way or another. And whether you hate it or thrive on it, it’s important to realize that you won’t always have control over change.
What brought this on? A few things, actually: For one, I’m going through changes in my life, personally. For another, I saw a presentation Maddie Grant posted about how media consumption has changed since 2000. It’s amazing to think about what changes have occurred in the way we communicate in just 10 short years.
So, how should you deal with change? Although everyone is different, there are a few tried-and-true things you can do to make the best of it.
- Think positively. No matter how you really feel about the changes, thinking negatively won’t help the situation at all. Additionally, negative thinking impedes our problem-solving skills.
- Focus. Focus on the results you want. “Our thoughts create our reality” is kind of cheesy, but if you have a clear vision of the results you’re hoping to achieve through the change, it’s more likely to happen.
- Take things has they come. Don’t think too far into the future or concern yourself with thoughts of things that may not even happen.
- Outsource if possible. If have the resources, outsource tasks that are low on your priority list. However, I realize that many small staff associations simply don’t have the money or resources. Instead, make your priorities clear and don’t feel
- Take time for yourself. It can be tempting to throw yourself into work or consume yourself with what’s changing, but it’s crucial to exercise, read a book or watch a favorite movie.
It’s so important to realize that not everyone in your organization is going to react to changes the same way you will. Equally important is to realize that change is one of the only constants in life. Try not to let yourself get too stressed out, or you won’t be able to function personally or professionally.
Great post on how to deal with change.
I’ve resigned myself to adopting an attitude that change is the constant and I may have to unlearn some past practices. We get used to things staying the same. They are comfortable like a favorite pair of jeans.
When we are quick to change, it’s a lot easier than resisting it.
Thanks for the comment, Jeff! There’s that saying that goes, “but in this world nothing can be said to be certain, except death and taxes,” but I certainly think “change” can be added to that list.
One think I would add to the post, though, is that it’s not necessary to change just for the sake of it.
Great suggestions, Shannon. I’ve found that even people who resist change, will relent if they can be persuaded they’ll benefit from the results. So, like everything else, think from the perspective of those who will be affected by your actions.
I completely agree with your comment, David. Often, a certain angle or different perspective needs to be taken with those who resist change. Thanks for the comment!