A CASE FOR CHANGE NOW

Challenges as we have seen in current days should make a strong case for change. Normally, many people resist change because they are in a comfort zone. However, challenging events such as the Coronavirus are forcing us to make changes. I was speaking to a business owner today who understands her numbers and where the business stands. She has strategic plans ready to be implemented based on a number of things that might happen in the upcoming months.

Then I have also spoken to a business owner who says it is too early to think about contingent plans because people are in the midst of traumatic times. Some say she is in denial or still processing.

Why do people resist change? Why to people want to wait and see when the threat in front of them demands action?

Understanding the reasons people resist change can help overcome the obstacles to change and create real progress. Here are some reasons why people are stuck and unable to make changes.

In our current situation the biggest obstacle is FEAR. This is not outside. Fear is internal; it’s in our head. Fear is the great crippler of human potential. There’s also an acronym that uses the letters F, E, A, and R that defines what fear is.

• F – false
• E – emotions
• A – appearing
• R – real

The second reason people resist change is because of EGO. The need to be right is a powerful human need. It’s a common problem with leaders, managers, and business owners. When was the last time you have heard someone so, “Well this is the way we have always done it”

The third reason why people resist change is to avoid CONFLICT. When you try to leave all the people back in their comfort zone called the “Land of Status Quo,” you’ll create and get some conflict. It’s not comfortable and it is not fun, so many people just avoid it all together.

The fourth reason that people resist change is LACK OF PURPOSE. Without a sense of purpose, people become stagnant and complacent. People get burnt out.

As a leader of yourself and others, you will need to overcome your own fear and help others overcome theirs by helping them change their mental attitudes that hold them back. You also have to make sure that your EGO doesn’t get in the way.

By being open to new and different ways to view things, as well as being open to the feedback and insights of others, you create an atmosphere where change is not an “I’m right and your wrong” mentality.

In the short book, “Who Moved My Cheese”, a story is told of four characters who deal with change and loss. It illustrates that change is not about knowledge and skills but attitudes and behaviors and above all, conquering our fears. In the book cheese stands for what we define as success.

For many if not most of us, the Cheese has moved! Act now. Don't wait until it disappears. The times are calling for change. It is also best to remember that success is a constant journey of change.

Would you like to learn how to make change work for you and your organization?

Contact us to learn more

or call 914-953-4458.