Overcoming Change To Realise Business Growth

“If you always do what you always did, you'll always get what you always got" -?Henry Ford.

As humans, we are creatures of habit. We tend to stick to routines and patterns and often resist change. This is also true for businesses and their leaders, many organisations and individuals will continue to do the same things day after day, even when those things are no longer effective. However, if you want to achieve different results in your business, you must be willing to embrace change and try new things.

The Challenge of Change in Business

In the fast-paced world of business, adaptability is key to survival and growth. Yet, many business leaders find it difficult to identify and implement the changes needed to propel their organisations forward. Change can be daunting for business leaders for several reasons:

• Comfort Zones: Human beings, including business leaders, tend to gravitate towards what is familiar and comfortable. Change often disrupts these routines, leading to resistance.
• Risk Aversion: Change inherently involves an element of risk, and business leaders may fear that implementing new strategies or practices will negatively impact their bottom line.
• Lack of Clarity: Sometimes, leaders are uncertain about what changes are necessary or how to execute them effectively. This ambiguity can create a barrier to change.
• Organisational Inertia: Established businesses often have deeply ingrained systems and processes, making it challenging to introduce new ways of doing things.

Using your 'Why' to help drive change

One of the most potent drivers of change is a clear sense of purpose. This is your 'why,' the reason your business exists beyond making a profit. When leaders articulate their 'why' and create a compelling vision for the future, they inspire their team and gain buy-in for change.

A clear 'why' and vision help align the entire organisation towards a common goal. When people understand the purpose behind change, they are more motivated to embrace it. It becomes more than just a mandate; it becomes a collective aspiration.

In the face of challenges, a strong 'why' provides resilience. It reminds leaders and teams of the bigger picture, helping them persevere through difficult times.

The role of a critical friend in supporting change

A critical friend is not just any friend or advisor; they are someone who you can trust implicitly. They can offer candid feedback, bounce ideas around, and provide honest advice, even when it's not what you want to hear.? A critical friend can play a pivotal role in helping business leaders embrace change and overcome any challenges they may face, through:

1. Honest Feedback: A critical friend doesn't sugar-coat things. They tell you the truth, even if it's uncomfortable. This honesty can pinpoint areas that require change and illuminate blind spots.
2. Objective Perspective: They provide an outsider's viewpoint, offering fresh ideas and insights. This can help leaders see opportunities for growth they might have missed.
3. Accountability: A critical friend can hold leaders accountable for their actions and decisions, ensuring that change initiatives stay on track.
4. Support and Encouragement: Even when advocating for change, a critical friend is a source of support and encouragement, helping leaders navigate the challenges that come with transformation.

Change is an inevitable part of business growth, but it's not always easy to implement. It starts with the leaders of the business and needs to be clearly visible by all. Business leaders may face resistance, uncertainty, and internal obstacles but often the biggest barrier is themselves.

Reflection and making the time for it becomes critical. To change we need to know where we are now, what’s not working and how to take the first steps to make change a reality. That requires thinking time and so many business leaders are too busy ‘doing’ to plan and lead the change that will create business success.

Knowing your 'why' and having a clear vision for your business can be the catalysts for inspiring change. They provide a compelling reason for your team to rally behind, making them more willing and eager to adapt to new strategies and approaches.

Finally, when it comes to driving change, having a critical friend is like having a secret weapon. They offer you a unique perspective, keep you on track, and help you make informed decisions. While it can be uncomfortable at times, the honesty and constructive criticism they provide are invaluable for your personal and professional growth.

So, if you're running a business, consider finding a trusted individual who can play the role of your critical friend. Embrace their insights, learn from their feedback, and watch your business thrive as a result. Remember, success is often a collaborative effort, and a critical friend can be your greatest ally on the path to achievement.

If you would like to know more about 360 Growth Partners and how we could become your ‘critical friend’ and help drive change in your business, then please?get in touch?and let’s start the conversation.