Often, we hear people make statements or questions like, “If only I had a crystal ball” or “What if this happens?” or “How will this work?” Perhaps you have thought that if things would only hold still, we’d be able to perfect what we are currently doing. Planning would be easier across our operations, and we would possess a clear road map on how to proceed.
However, life is filled with change and that is not likely to slow down for our convenience. You have only to look at the emergence of AI, medical breakthroughs, political shifts, or even the weather. It can seem that every area of life is being impacted by change and this can produce anxiety and fear. These emotions, if not examined, could prevent us from benefiting from change.
Instead, we should embrace the fact that change is constant and realize how it can be good for us. Growth requires change and often brings new learning and insight. Without change, we would lose the opportunity for growth and new discoveries. It is sad to think of a world without inventions and advances that can improve life.
When change happens, our first thought is “What does this mean for me?” We try to determine if this change will be negative and make our lives more difficult. Consider whether a better question is “What benefits will this change bring to our world?” The difference in these questions is important if we are to embrace change and recognize it for the good it can produce.
The first question–how this change impacts my life–focuses on a small data point of my life. Yes, sometimes change may impact me in a negative way, but what if we realize it could have huge benefits for others in the community? As leaders, our decision making should consider factors beyond ourselves to include those we serve.
Further, the first question looks for the negative consequences versus the positive. Most change will be a mixture of positive and negative. The focus for leaders should be on whether there is significant value in the change. If so, we can then work on minimizing the negative and move towards what could benefit so many.
Let’s remain open to change and ask instead, “What if this is possible?” Great things are yet to come!
