Legacy Magazine

by Kris Whipple

“Change is the law of life and those who look only to the past or present are certain to miss the future.” —John F. Kennedy

“If you want to make enemies, try to change something.” — Woodrow Wilson

What best describes your feelings about change? Terrifying? Exciting? Necessary? Whatever your approach, one thing is certain: change is an inevitable part of life. To complicate matters, as trainers (and therefore leaders and role models) we not only have to handle change in our own lives, but we are often called upon to communicate or initiate change within our organization. But how do you inspire others to change when you’re dreading it yourself? Your first step is to see change in a different light. A change of attitude, along with the following tips, can help you and your team successfully navigate the change process.

When you see the signs of change, adapt quickly: Charles Darwin said, “It is not the strongest of the species that survive, nor the most intelligent, but the one most responsive to change.” Though he may have been speaking of finches and tortoises, the same is true of humans. If you do not adapt to changes within your organization, you or your team might become extinct! Complacency and a low sense of urgency are two of the biggest barriers to change. Once you see that signs of change are in the air, develop a plan and move forward with conviction and confidence.

Create your action plan: Change represents the unknown. The fear associated with this can cause us to focus our energy on negative thoughts, worry, gossip, and feelings of helplessness. While this is understandable, these actions destroy focus and motivation and do nothing to resolve the situation. Instead, channel that energy into positive actions that provide results. Throw away your doubts and insecurities and ask yourself the following questions: What is the worst-case scenario? What will I do if it happens? What would I do if I wasn’t afraid? Planning for a variety of possible scenarios will help conquer your insecurities and help you regain control. At the same time, don’t forget to stay focused on your current responsibilities. Remaining productive and positive will make you feel more optimistic about your current situation and serve as a model for others.

Create a positive vision of the future: Creating a compelling vision of your future will inspire you to break free from the status quo and take action. Imagine yourself enjoying a better future in great detail. The sooner you take action towards this new vision, the quicker it will become reality.

And what to do when change affects not only you but those on your team? A leader’s role is not only to communicate changes but to inspire a shared vision and commitment.

Typically, the further down the organizational chain people are, the less empowered they feel and the more afraid of change they may be. Whatever their role, they will have one question on their minds, “What does this mean to me?” Communicate honestly and often. Without accurate information people are likely to “fill in the blanks” with whatever information seems most likely and then disseminate it as fact. Listen to your team’s concerns and opinions and allow them to get involved in the process. It takes time for people to process change. The first time they hear about it, they may be listening through filters of fear, doubt, worry, and confusion. So repeat the message again and again. Even if you have no additional information, check in with your team and stay connected. Continuing to reward and recognize staff for positive performance and providing meaningful short-term wins will provide motivation and a greater chance of success.

Change is much easier and fun when we let go of our fears. Keep your sense of humor, challenge yourself to see the opportunities that lie within every change, and focus on positive action and outcomes. When you change your perspective, you change your attitude. When you change your attitude, you often change your results. It’s all up to you.

Kris Whipple, CIG, CIT, CIP, is an interpretive consultant/trainer in Naples, Florida. She can be contacted at kris.w@earthlink.net.