Change is the only constant!

Opportunities arise, technologies evolve and demands change.  

To take advantage of these effectively, we need to be able to embrace change and welcome it.  Yet so often, people feel threatened and become nervous about organisational changes.

Whilst there is a sense of security in things remaining the same, it may be false.  As we all know, to continue doing the same things we've always done and expect a different result is optimistic at best, suicide at worst.  

So how do we create a sense of security to keep our team confident about their future, and at the same time encourage them to welcome changes?

Create a culture where new ideas are encouraged, input from the team is welcome and adaptability is acknowledged and appreciated.  If change is seen as exciting, as creating new opportunities and giving people a chance to learn new skills it will be embraced by the people who can best help us to take advantage of it.

If this culture is the norm, change will be less daunting.  This means looking at our communication processes - how are new directions communicated, and when?   Is it once decisions are made, or before they are finalised in order to give people a chance to contribute?

Review the organisational values.  Just as individuals have values, a company's values evolve over time.  It's essential that what is promoted in a mission statement as a value, such as integrity or dynamism, is practised and recognised in actions that occur.  For example, a mission statement that includes "we value our employees" will be devalued if we do not encourage and recognise input, responsibility and innovation from our team.  Poor morale, absenteeism or inadequate skill levels may result.

If you work alone and you don't have a team, how do you respond to change?  With enthusiasm, excitement and anticipation?  Or with dread, fear and uncertainty?  

The approach you take will impact on your health, and on your enjoyment of life - and may be the difference between having the right mindset to take advantage of opportunities, in order to grow your business further!

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