Change is good. Whether we like it or not, change is coming. As the saying goes “Change is the only constant”. Some of us thrive on it and welcome its existence, others dread it and for them it may cause nothing but stress. But we all know that change is necessary for growth and success.
This got me thinking, what if the inspiration for change is drawn from the way we think about it? Over the years, I’ve seen a LOT of change, some good and some not so good.
Unless you are a change manager, who really gets excited at the mention of change, most people groan at the thought of some quick fix/whiz bang/hippy new-age idea. But let’s look at it like planning something fun, like a holiday. Would we view change differently? Would we find it refreshing? Replace the word change with holiday and see that it is not so scary after all.
The holiday is all about vision
Before you start on your journey, ask yourself lots of questions. What is the purpose of this holiday? To relax, to release stress, or just to chill out? Why now? What will happen if you decide not to take time off? Are you doing this for yourself or someone else? What will be different once you have had this holiday? And most importantly, how committed are you to pulling the trigger and going through with it? What is it you expect to achieve in the end? By being able to answer all these questions, you are able to explain to yourself and others the direction you are heading. You will know exactly what needs to be done, and not end up where you don’t want to be.
Without a holiday plan, there can be no fun
Spoken like a true process person but… all holidays need structure. Set SMART goals. This will help you consciously guide the process. Setting goals will help you decide how the holiday is going to happen, as well as putting you in the mindset to accept the decision. First, list what you are going to do first. I am sure your partner wants to know the steps you are taking to plan the trip. Let them in on the process and allow them to make alterations. People are more likely to be accepting of the change if they feel they have some control over it.
A holiday has to have a feeling
We don’t often talk about our feelings in the business world. If we do, we usually hide behind words such as concerns or risks. But holidays, like change, are about feelings, whether we want to admit it or not. When planning a holiday, some people respond with joy and optimism, and others with reservation and fear. Ask all people involved in your journey to explain what their fears and reservations are. Are they based on facts or are we just scared of the unknown? Maybe they have a point that backpacking through North Korea is not a good idea.
Holidays are inevitable
Breathe and be flexible. Prepare to move with the punches when planning the trip (and change in your business) because they are going to happen, and need to happen. No life is change-free – but the bigger question is, would you like it if it was? It would be like the movie Groundhog Day, which might seem like fun in the beginning but the excitement would quickly wear off? Change is necessary.
Change is good. You may even say it is as good as a holiday! And with that obvious joke, I hope to leave you with a desire to change.
