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Being Aware of the Pace of Change:

When we finally get to the point of clarity about our vision, we often get so fired up that we burn the candle at both ends. What does that mean when it comes to work?  As I consult with companies I notice two things: either the culture is a sleeping beauty, or it is a raving bull.  Might there be a third option?  When we choose to "fall asleep" and become complacent, confused and content, we miss "cues at the tip of the iceberg" that tell us the opportunities that lie ahead.  Those same cues tell us of warning signals too.  But when we are so comfortable, we often miss the cues.

On the other hand, when we finally wake-up, we can swing to the other direction, acting like a bull with blinders on in a china cabinet.  We are so set on charging ahead, that we don't see the damage we are doing along the way.

This type of all or nothing, flight/fight way of being seems part of our nature. However, knowing this, we are able to observe this tendency and choose to find a better way.  How might we do that?  Balancing performance and perception is the key.  Performance means you are clear with employees about the vision, the goals and the activities expected.  Perceptions mean you are also aware of how they are perceiving these changes.  What are they telling themselves about themselves and the changes before them?  Change often brings out our self-doubt and stretches our comfort zone.  We can often begin to question: Will I have enough time? Will I have enough support? and Will I be enough for the new task at hand?  

Effective leadership considers this typical reaction as part of the change process.  If they don't, the result is negative employees, lack of follow-through, turn-over etc.  

How might you consider both the needs of the corporation and the feelings of the employees as change is occurring?  Being open and aware is key. 

all contents are copyright  Susan K. Wehrley & Associates, Inc 2004