Change is at the core of any business and is vital to survival in this competitive time. Having said this, most people are averse to change, especially conscious change, which means that they would rather stay in their comfort zone than take the leap of faith into the unknown. That literally means that they would rather let life control them than be in control of their life. Instead of being proactive, we prefer to be reactive most times.
People resist change because they believe they are uncertain and fear adapting
to new ways. We all have an innate need for security and the uncertainty that
comes with change is not welcome.
People don’t change by force but by needs that drive them. Change doesn’t
have to be a painful process. The initial jitters are normal, in fact, it is
extremely normal to initially resist change however it is important to inch
toward embracing change, after all, we change every day. We must understand
that change allows for new learnings and experiences and an evolved mindset.
As leaders, it is important to be consultative and directive in your
approach. The concern is that many leaders struggle to motivate and engage
their teams thereby making organizational change difficult.
Change can be adapted by-
Using the effective technique and pure intrinsic motivation. The points
below will help you adapt to change in a better way.
1- Preparation- We need to physically, mentally and emotionally prepare
ourselves for change. In this stage, it is important to know the reason for
change. Ideate, gather information, get details, run it with teams of key
people in the organization. Consider resources at all levels- people and
process. Prepare for the current scenario and for contingencies as you foresee
them. Great leaders listen to the fears of people and support them as if they
were theirs. Talk to people one-on-one as it creates a safe space for people to
open up and be vulnerable.
2-
Change requires inculcating new habits-
It requires a regular, conscious effort every single time. Understand your
values and engage with your ‘fearless’ self. Taking baby steps is the key. The
transitional process is always a challenge however consistency is important to
make the change a part of your life. Positive reinforcements are often required.
3- Action time- This is a stage to put your plans into action and living
the change however uncomfortable you feel. It will take time so give yourself a
good amount of time- about 3-6 months and even more in some cases. Avoid being
harsh on yourself. You need to be strongly committed at this stage and stick to
your plan however difficult it is. You may witness praise as well as criticism,
learn to accept it as feedback and keep pursuing positively. Keep your eyes on
the bigger picture.
Remember,
before you know it, your new found behaviour will be the one you practice
regularly. Please note that you may possibly go back into your old behaviour
and you’ll need to be determined and focused at all times.
You
may try creating a support system to keep you going as positive reinforcement is
bound to work. And remember to finally—
4- Stay motivated- Unleashing your intrinsic motivation is the key to the
above. Focus on motivation that arises
from trust and interdependence. Create a motivation streak that works around
your values and integrity and this will help you stay committed. Embrace what
matters to you and you will see your fears reduce.
Finally, now that change doesn’t happen overnight. It takes time, allow
yourself that time. Allow yourself to fall and remember to pick yourself up and
keep going ahead. Things may move slowly, stay patient and strong when the
progress is slow. And avoid the negative triggers that keep you from moving
forward.
