Change isn’t as difficult as perceived. However, tradition is comfortable. Old running shoes just seem to fit better. The old sweater is preferred even if it should be thrown out. Leading an organization through change has similar struggles. Haggai encourages us to consider our ways (plans systems, activities) to see if they are working.
“the word of the Lord came by Haggai the prophet, saying, “… Now therefore, thus says the Lord of hosts: Consider your ways!” (Haggai 1:3)
Note the obvious:
-Everything will stay the same unless you change something.
-You cannot be the person you want to be by being the person you have always been.
-Your business, family or church will not achieve God’s vision by repeating the past.
-The future will be the same as the past, unless something changes.
Albert Einstein is quoted. “You cannot achieve a new goal by applying the same level of thinking that got you where you are today.” Note, James C. Hunter’s book The World’s most powerful Leadership Principle.
Paul said, “Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, I press on toward the goal.” (Philippians 3:13-14). Polly LaBarre in Fast Company confirms that “Change is a chain reaction, but you have to be deliberate about where you start. YOU can’t fix everything at once. The trick is to find the minimum number of leverage points that can make a dramatic impact.”
So how do we effect personal and organizational change? I encourage leaders to start simple. Review your To Do List looking for activities that do not contribute to your Vision. Then, replace these activities with value added work. You always want to do work that leads to your goal. Be creative, innovative and design a plan that you can implement easily. Set priorities that support your values, then monitor to ensure you stay on track. Don’t try to change everything. Small consistent steps toward your goal are always more effective.
Leadership is changing the future by doing something different today!
Yours in Service,
Laurie D. Kennedy
Leadership Coach