The Unspoken Challenges of Change
“It’s not about standing still and becoming safe. If anybody wants to keep creating they have to be about change.” - Miles Davis
Hey there, Leaders!
In this edition, we're diving into a rarely discussed yet universally experienced phenomenon in leadership: the gravitational pull back to comfort during times of change. It's a journey every leader, regardless of industry or experience level, encounters. This tug-of-war between growth and comfort zones isn't just a phase; it's a continuous challenge that demands perseverance and courage. Let's explore this aspect of change, why it's worth pushing through, and how to stay steadfast when everything inside you screams for the familiar.
The Unseen Force of Change
There's an initial burst of excitement when you decide to step up, innovate, or take a new direction. This energy propels you forward, but soon after, a subtle force begins to exert itself. It's the pull back to the known, to the comfort of how things were. This isn't just nostalgia; it's a deep-seated human instinct to seek safety and predictability.
The early phases of change are often romanticized — we talk about breakthroughs and 'aha' moments. Yet, the reality involves a lot of second-guessing, discomfort, and the daunting feeling of not knowing what you're doing. It's not glamorous, but it's where real growth happens.
Why Persevere? The Unspoken Truth
Here's something we need to talk about more: the reason this gravitational pull feels so strong is precisely because you're on the verge of real transformation. It's a signal, not of impending failure, but of progress. With all its safety, the comfort zone is also where growth stagnates. By acknowledging the pull but choosing to move forward, you're not just evolving as a leader but expanding the boundaries of what's possible for your team and organization.
Staying Steadfast: Practical Tips
Acknowledge the Pull: Recognize this feeling for what it is — a natural part of the change process. It doesn't mean you're making a mistake; it means you're human.
Revisit Your 'Why': Keep your motivations clear and accessible. Remind yourself why you embarked on this path of change. This can be a personal vision, the impact you want to have, or the growth you wish to see in your team.
Build a Support Network: Change is hard but harder alone. Surround yourself with mentors, peers, and team members who support your vision and understand the journey's emotional landscape.
Small Wins Matter: Set and celebrate small milestones. This helps create a sense of progress and can diminish the allure of the comfort zone.
Stay Flexible: Be open to adjusting your course. Sometimes, the pull back to comfort is a sign to pivot, not retreat. Innovation isn't a straight line.
Practice Self-Compassion: Be kind to yourself through this process. Leadership is as much about personal growth as it is about guiding others.
The journey of change is fraught with challenges that should be talked about more. The pull back to comfort is among the most persistent and misleading. Understanding its nature, acknowledging its presence, and equipping yourself with the right mindset and tools can turn this challenge into a powerful catalyst for growth and innovation.
Remember, the discomfort of change is temporary, but the regret of stagnation can last a lifetime. Keep pushing forward, leaders. The view from the other side is worth it.
“Only I can change my life. No one can do it for me.”
"Dare to Lead" by Brené Brown offers insights into leading with courage and vulnerability, essential in times of change.
"How I Built This" with Guy Raz shares stories of entrepreneurs and leaders who've navigated significant changes and the lessons learned along the way.
Online Courses: Platforms like Coursera and LinkedIn Learning offer change management, leadership, and personal development courses that can provide tools and frameworks for navigating change
Newsletters I read daily to stay informed and get inspired: The Hustle, Morning Brew, Seth Godin’s Blog, Atlas Obscura, Oprah Daily
Podcasts: The Daily, NPR News Now, Marketplace, Marketplace Tech, Don’t Keep Your Day Job, The Highest Self, Planet Money
Well, that’s interesting…
The State of Streaming Report is out now, a few highlights:
> Twitch recorded 1.902 billion hours watched in January, marking the highest monthly total since Q2 2023.
> January's daily viewership reached a new record with an average of 61.4 million hours.
That’s a lot of streaming!
This month's featured book is a thought-provoking read that challenges conventional wisdom on growth.
Dan Sullivan's insights show us why aiming for 10X growth is more attainable and rewarding than the traditional 2X. By focusing on enhancing our freedoms in time, money, relationships, and purpose, we unlock exponential personal and professional growth.
Let's dive into this transformative approach together and redefine what success means to us.
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