Are You Resisting Change? Stop and Start Adapting!

Change is inevitable, both in life and leadership, and let’s be real, change can be very uncomfortable. Many, myself included, have unknowingly resisted it at times, clinging to the familiar because it feels safe. But here's the truth: change is constant, and resisting it can hold you back from being the best you can be.

In the article that kicked off this series, Are You Making Leadership Mistakes That AI Can’t Fix? , we explored how relying on technology alone can’t solve core leadership issues, especially when it comes to adaptability and human insight. This article builds on that by looking at how resisting change is another common leadership mistake, one that prevents growth and stifles potential. If we want to thrive, we must be willing to embrace change rather than resist it.

I remember working with a client who was implementing a new EMR (Electronic Medical Record) system. The team was hesitant to embrace it because their old system, although outdated, was familiar. They resisted the change because they feared the complexity of the new technology and the impact on their roles. I could see the frustration and delays it caused, not just for them but for their entire team. But once they adapted and embraced the change, they saw improvements in efficiency and team morale. It wasn’t easy, but it was necessary.

Change isn’t always about technology or processes. It might be something more personal, like moving to a new home or even a new city. I’ve seen people hesitate to make that move, even when they know it could improve their quality of life or open up new opportunities. Whether it’s the fear of starting over or simply not wanting to leave the comfort of the familiar, this resistance holds them back.?

Why We Resist Change

Most of us resist change because of fear; fear of failure, fear of the unknown, or even fear of success. I’ve been there, too. Staying in your comfort zone feels easier, but in reality, it’s holding us back. As Spencer Johnson writes in Who Moved My Cheese? , “What you are afraid of is never as bad as what you imagine. The fear you let build up in your mind is worse than the situation that actually exists.” This resistance can also signal a lack of adaptability, which is one of the most crucial skills for any leader.

Being adaptable means recognizing that change isn’t the enemy. It’s an opportunity. It’s about shifting your mindset to see change as a chance to grow.

Spotting the Signs of Resistance

Here are a few signs you might be resisting change without realizing it:

• You shy away from feedback or criticism that challenges your current methods.
• You stick to traditional approaches, even when newer ones could save you time or effort.
• You notice your team is stagnating, but you’re not exploring fresh strategies to re-energize them.

If any of these sound familiar, it’s time to rethink your approach. Change doesn’t mean throwing out everything that works. It’s more about enhancing what you already have.

How to Embrace Change as a Leader

Embracing change doesn’t have to be overwhelming. It’s all about taking small, intentional steps that lead to bigger breakthroughs. In my experience, adaptability is key, it helps you stay flexible in the face of challenges and keeps you open to new possibilities. Here are some practical ways that have worked for me, and that can help you lead your team through change:

• Open Communication: I’ve found that creating a space where your team feels comfortable sharing their thoughts and ideas is crucial. Whether you have an office, a cubicle, or you're working virtually from your kitchen table, having an open-door policy (even if it's a virtual door!) is key. Open communication builds trust and encourages collaboration, making change feel more manageable.
• Lead by Example: It’s important to demonstrate that adapting is a shared effort. Making small changes—whether it’s learning a new skill or adopting a new process—sends a clear message that navigating change is a collective journey. When a leader embraces change, the team is more likely to follow suit, feeling more comfortable and supported in the process.
• Pilot New Ideas: Instead of implementing large changes all at once, test new ideas on a smaller scale. This helps ease the team into new ways of working and gives them a chance to adjust and improve before rolling things out more broadly.
• Celebrate Small Wins: I’ve learned that recognizing progress, even small wins, can make a big difference. Celebrating those moments not only boosts morale but reinforces the changes.

Wrapping Up

As we’ve discussed, resisting change is just as damaging as confusing leadership with authority, which we covered in Stop Confusing Leadership with Authority .? I’ll be the first to admit, delegating hasn’t always been easy for me. Early in my career, I found it hard to let go of control, fearing that others wouldn’t do things the way I would. But over time, I learned that effective delegation is key to scaling leadership and empowering teams.

If you’re ready to embrace change and develop the adaptability needed to lead in today’s fast-paced world, let’s connect. I’d love to help you create a plan for you or your team that encourages growth, and drives results.

Additionally, a DISC assessment can provide valuable insights into your leadership and communication styles. Helping you understand how to lead with greater awareness and adaptability. Let’s work together to become the kind of leaders that AI can’t replace.

Don't forget to check out our previous articles.

• The MisUsed Project Managers: Stop Undervaluing Their Leadership

• Fractional Project Management: The Good, the Bad, and the Business Impact

• Ready to Lead? Turning Aspirations into Action

• Stay Sharp: Learning Tactics for Leaders

Ready to transform your project management approach? Contact us today for a consultation and discover how The Virtual PM can help you succeed, visit The Virtual PM . Explore our digital library for a wealth of resources and tools designed to help you implement and maximize the impact of fractional roles in your organization. Don't miss out on this opportunity to enhance your project outcomes and drive success!