We all face change at some point in life. Change is difficult for most of us. We were fearful of changing schools as children. We may have been apprehensive about moving to a new community. Job changes are always hard. Changes in family dynamics can be tough. Getting a new boss can be nerve-racking.
Change can come in many forms other than the obvious ones previously noted. If you have ever had to find a new doctor, dentist, or hairdresser, you have probably had a few anxious moments regarding the change. Have you ever traded in an older model reliable vehicle for a new car and had second thoughts? Change can be hard even if it holds some excitement.
Change can be hard on many levels. Whether it’s the disruption of routine, the fear of the unknown, or loss of the known, change can cause a great deal of anxiety for many people. I heard some version of the following statement years ago and have used it routinely in my coaching sessions for years now:
Many people will prefer a predictable bad versus a possible good.
Yes, many will stay in an unpleasant work situation, unfulfilling relationship, or undesirable living arrangement because it’s known. They know what to expect. They may not like it, but it’s predictable. While the change may be better, it also may be worse. So many err to the side of the worst and just stay with the known no matter how unpleasant it may be. Predictable wins over the possible. They fear change.
Change is an issue in the workplace as well. I have seen many managers fail to effectively execute a major change within an organization. People generally don’t embrace change very well in their work environments. Companies spend significant amounts of money on change management consultants to help them when a few simple steps performed well would have enabled them to succeed.
So, what are these steps? Whether you are working through a change crisis on your own or leading others through one within an organization, here a few thoughts on how to navigate change more effectively:
- Information – The more one knows about the new endeavor, new opportunity, or new challenge, the more likely they are to embrace it. Knowledge is not only power, but it also alleviates stress of the unknown. While you may not have a clear vision of everything the change may bring, seek out information for yourself and provide it to others if you are in a leadership role.
- Communication – As a leader, you need to communicate more than ever in periods of change. Go beyond what’s changing to why it’s changing. The more people understand why, the more likely they can embrace it. For individuals, ask questions and resolve as many issues as possible.
- Connection – Talk to others going through similar experiences. Leaders get key influencers on board. Connecting with others is a key element in navigating changing environments.
- Personalization – Understand and seek out personal benefit. For leaders, make sure everyone knows why it should matter to them personally. The more everyone understands the personal benefit, reason, or gain, the more likely they are to embrace the change.
Change can be tough, but it is inevitable with life. The better equipped we are to handle change, the better equipped we are to handle life. Change can be good. Growth is a change, and we all need to keep growing!
