Embracing Change - The Only Constant in Today’s Business World

EVERYONE knows the old saying: ‘The only certainties in life are death and taxes.’

Well, I think the word ‘change’ should be added to this list, especially as the pace of change in today’s business world accelerates at an even greater rate.

Fortunately, it is possible for any leader to use this constant change to their advantage, if they have the right mindset.

Indeed, by embracing change and using it to learn and grow, a leader can create an atmosphere of innovation and growth that will really push their organisation forward.

In a recent Inc.com article, leadership expert and Rubicon Project founder Frank Addante explains how this can be done in just a few simple steps:

1. Remove excessive expectations

Any leader can get so personally involved in what they are doing - they almost lose sight of reality.

However, this can be addressed. Indeed, writer William Faulkner compared this to ‘learning to kill your darlings’.

By this he meant learning to let go of something that you have a strong attachment to - for the greater good. By doing so, you also open yourself up to a whole new world of opportunities 

2. Take a closer look

Sometimes a leader has to decide between completely eliminating an idea or approach - or continuing with it in a deeper, more intense way.

Quite often, the latter alternative is worthwhile.

It certainly worked for Microsoft who, when faced with the option to pursue a closer interest in technology and innovation or let it pass them by, chose to put even more energy into it.

The result was Hololens -which has since revolutionised Virtual Reality (VR) and information

3. Surround yourself with ‘change-makers’

Any leader worth his or her salt will recognise the importance of surrounding themselves with like-minded people who are not only accepting of change, but revel in it.

This is because the best people thrive on change and do all they can to encourage it - rather than resisting it.

By investing in resilient people who are adaptable and do not fear failure, you will be equipped with a team that can prosper in these times of uncertainty and change

4. Keep moving and progressing

An organisation can only remain relevant and effective if it keeps moving and progressing. Indeed, most organisations need this constant advancement to create new ideas, discoveries and opportunities.

Thus, any organisation that doesn’t keep up with its competitors soon becomes irrelevant, disconnected and disenfranchised – often leading to extinction.

5. Go with the flow

Any leader, like any organisation, is at the mercy of the changes happening around them.

The trick with this is not to become hard or immovable - but to let things happen around you in an even flow.

By being fluid you can actually put yourself in a position of strength by allowing new opportunities to appear, a bit like a raft on a river.

As in nature, going ‘against the stream’ is much harder than going with it.

6. Keep your eye on the prize

Having a positive end goal is essential for any leader. Indeed, by staying focused on this and holding true to your vision - you can much better manage and maintain your motivation and determination.

A good tip is to keep a copy of your strategic goals in your pocket at all times.

Then, whenever you need a ‘pick me up’ just turn to this list for inspiration.