When leading the Change Feels Like Kayaking Through a Hurricane - why we should not give up.

Let's face it, championing change in the workplace can feel like navigating a raging hurricane in a flimsy kayak. You see the potential for a calmer, more efficient, or simply more humane work environment. You meticulously plan your route, gather your crew (or at least a few willing ones), and then – bam!!

Resistance hits like a rogue wave, threatening to capsize your entire mission. Doubt and fear crash down, fueled by the all-too-familiar refrain, "But this is how we've always done things!".

here are seven things you need to realize, and you need to base your plans upon them to overcome the resistance and reach the shore successfully.

1) The Siren Song of the Status Quo.

We've all been there. That soul-crushing moment when resistance feels like an indomitable storm, and a voice whispers, "Maybe they're right. Maybe the status quo is the safest harbor." But here's the crucial truth: we can't afford to give up.? The world, our workplaces, and the people in them crave progress. They need leaders with the courage to challenge the comfortable, disrupt the norm, and create a more positive future.

remember your position, don't follow the herd of norms, and you don't want to be a member of the reactionaries or backwards. value yourself and remain authentic to your goals.

2) Remember Your North Star (your Benchmark)

Take a deep breath and revisit your anchor – your "why." Why are you so passionate about this change? What problem are you trying to solve? How will this transformation improve the lives of your colleagues, the customers you serve, or even the world at large?

Reconnect with that purpose, let it be the wind in your sails, propelling you forward. remember without our vision we lack meaning, motivation, direction, fulfillment and even well being.

The lack of purpose can leave us feeling empty, unmotivated, and lost.

3) Build Your Band of Change Warriors.

You don't have to paddle through this hurricane alone. Seek out your fellow change champions – the ones whose eyes light up when you speak of the future, the ones who share your vision for calmer waters. Build a support network, a crew of warriors who will celebrate your victories, offer a hand when you're caught in a current, and remind you of the destination you're all striving for.

you need warriors who don't only talk the talk, we are talking about the early adaptors, problem solvers, and influencers. you need those who empower enthusiasm, respect their colleges and really believe in change direction.

4) Empowering Your Crew: It's Not a Solo Voyage.

This voyage isn't just about you being the captain at the helm. It's about empowering your crew to navigate alongside you. Share your knowledge, delegate tasks, and celebrate the contributions of everyone on board. When everyone feels valued and capable, the destination feels a lot closer.

Imagine the collective strength you create when each member of your crew feels like they have an oar in the water, actively propelling themselves forward

5) Celebrating Milestones, Not Just the Finish Line.

We all crave instant gratification, but real change is an epic expedition, not a weekend joyride. There will be storms, there will be moments of doubt, but there will also be moments of pure exhilaration – those exhilarating breakthroughs where you see your vision start to take shape. Celebrate these wins, big and small. They are the lighthouses guiding you towards a brighter future. Finding a client who embraces your new approach? A colleague who steps forward to champion your cause? These are victories worth commemorating.

?6) The Emotional Tax and the Power of Self-Care

Leading change is undeniably challenging, and it would be deceptive to ignore the emotional toll it can take. The constant pushback, the long hours, the feeling of being misunderstood – these can chip away at even the most resilient leader.?

Remember, you can't pour from an empty cup.? Schedule time for self-care, activities that replenish your energy and spirit. Whether it's spending time in nature, meditation, or simply connecting with loved ones, prioritize activities that help you stay grounded and centered.

7) Building Your Support ecosystem

Feeling isolated is a common struggle for change leaders. Here are what you need not to be alone in this struggle

Join Communities or attend events: Connect with other change leaders online through forums, social media groups, or professional associations. Share experiences, ask questions, and offer support to others. Events also provide opportunities to learn from export, and network with peers.

Seek Mentorship: Find experienced leaders who have successfully navigated change initiatives. Their guidance and insights can be invaluable.

Seek the underdogs: they often have a strong desire to prove themselves, to change, and to overcome obstacles, their lack of resources pushes their power and creativity. have this type on board will definitely empower the change.

Change is a marathon, not a sprint. But the finish line vista is breathtaking. Leading change is undeniably challenging, but the alternative (stagnation) is a dead end. So, let's keep paddling together.

Let's support each other, celebrate each other's triumphs, and never lose sight of the incredible impact we can have by collectively rowing towards a better tomorrow. with unwavering determination, a supportive crew, and a clear vision, we can ride any storm and reach the calmer waters we all deserve.

#changeleadership #resilience #teamwork #leadership #change