CHANGE VS TRANSITION The word change often brings a negative connotation with it. Leaders and consultants often talk about having to manage change. Many talk about the changing dynamic that millennials are bringing to the workforce. Empty nesters talk about the change associated with their children going off to college. And wherever I speak, people talk about the changes happening in their company, school, industry, and society.
It appears that people don't like change and are afraid of it. But in the words of my friend Brian Buffini, "People actually like change. They just don't like transition." We often like what change eventually produces. We just don't like having to go through it. I hated all the construction that made my drive to the airport a challenge but now I love the ramp and bypass that makes my drive a breeze. I was terrified when I lost my job during the dot.com crash years ago and hated going through that transition but now I'm so thankful it led me to become a writer and speaker. I don't like the first few days of writing a book (I feel like I'm birthing something) but I love it when it's finished. My son didn't like experiencing growing pains but he's very happy now that he went through it... and is even happier that he's a lot taller than me. : ) The transition from who we are to who we are meant to be is often challenging and fearful but it's part of the process to produce the change we are meant to ultimately experience and enjoy.
The same is true for transitions and change in organizations and society. Right now our country is going through a transition. A lot of issues and transgressions are being brought to the surface. It's painful and uncomfortable but I believe it will ultimately lead to positive change in the future. Call me idealistic but research shows that those who believe in a brighter and better future are the ones who take action to create it. So whether you are going through a transition in your life, in your marriage, at work or in your organization I want you to see the difference between transition and change. Don't let fear amidst the uncertainty affect you from driving positive change for you and your team. Stay positive through the transition so you can benefit from the change. Trust that no matter how much you dislike the transition you are going through that it will lead to positive change and great things in your future. Thank you for reading, - Jon | 