Thinking Beyond: Navigating Change
February 9, 2015
Photo by Nicole Wilcox on Unsplash
Every now and then in business we are given the opportunity to imagine difference. This is an actual moment in time when we know nothing is impossible. Most likely it occurs in the midst of navigating the quagmire of change whether it is new leadership, a different organizational structure or emerging technology.
True leaders are able to weather the storm that surrounds change, to quiet themselves in the midst of discord when all seems doomed. The true leader can rally colleagues and explain the probabilities in relatable terms because they are comfortable in the midst of creativity and innovation. Such leaders are driven by the positives of change, the exhilarating thrill of bringing something to life, or the challenge of going outside the norm to ensure continued success.
When so much at stake, with so many moving pieces as a business on the cusp of change, is when leaders need to remind themselves and others of the joy in simple moments. It is in such moments that thinking can be realigned to the concept that anything is possible. To accomplish realignment, I look for exercises (a retreat using a book like Our Iceberg is Melting), quotes (Einstein “Learn from yesterday, live for today, hope for tomorrow. The important thing is not to stop questioning”), articles (The Biggest Mistake a Company can Make http://fortune.com/2015/10/13/biggest-mistake-successful-company/), or videos (https://player.vimeo.com/video/117588730?color=cc0025). The point is to share and rekindle the belief that leadership can and must drive the organization forward.
The video I referenced above is a great example of a life filled with belief, fortitude, resilience, and enjoyment, all traits leaders need to carry others through the morass of change. Consider just one of the characteristics demonstrated by the star of the video – enjoyment. We often cast aside such emotion in our workday as we become bogged down in barriers and challenges of change and forget to step back and imagine how wonderful it will be when all is said and done. This video reminds us of our indomitable nature, our desire to stay in the game, to continue setting records no matter the situation. So take 90 seconds and reconnect with joy. Then go back to accomplishing the difficult with a renewed vision of success!
Dr. Lalia Rach is founder and partner of Rach Enterprises, a consulting firm that takes an uncommon sense approach and delivers genuine ideas that challenge traditional thinking. Blending professionalism, intelligence and enthusiasm, Lalia stimulates new thinking on leadership, risk-taking, strategy and innovation for clients who are seeking to escape the status quo. Lalia is a trusted adviser to senior level executives at many leading organizations due to her straightforward approach to business concerns and creative solutions that are results driven.