Turn and embrace the change

We might still be all driving Model Ts if Henry Ford had listened to his customers.  

He often quipped, "If I'd asked my customers what they wanted, they'd have said, 'Don't change anything.'" But the visionary Ford was just getting started, and I wonder how excited he would be to drive a souped-up Mustang Mach-E to the factory every day. 

The only thing constant in life is change. That's why we need to embrace change and view it as an opportunity rather than a threat. As entrepreneur and author Mark Sanborn put it, "Your success in life isn't based on your ability to simply change. It is based on your ability to change faster than your competition, customers and business." 

Here's how I view change and why it's important:

Adaptability equals survival. Businesses that thrive are those that can adapt to changing markets, technologies and consumer preferences. The ability to pivot and embrace change is crucial for long-term success.

Change drives innovation. Change often serves as a catalyst for innovation. It pushes companies to think creatively, develop new products or services and improve existing processes. Without change, businesses risk stagnation.

Competitive advantage. Companies that are open to change can seize new opportunities faster than their competitors. Being first in adopting new trends or technologies can provide a significant competitive edge.

Employee engagement. Embracing change can also lead to a more dynamic and engaging work environment. Employees who see their company evolving and growing are more likely to feel motivated and invested in their work.

Customer satisfaction. As customer needs and expectations evolve, businesses must change to meet these demands. By staying attuned to customer feedback and market trends, companies can enhance customer satisfaction and loyalty.

Research by a Canadian neurosurgeon discovered some dramatic truths about the human mind's reaction to change. He conducted various experiments which proved that when a person is forced to change a fundamental belief or opinion, the brain undergoes a series of nervous sensations equivalent to distressing torture.

Change is not something to be feared. Rather it is something we should welcome — for without change, nothing in this world would ever grow or blossom. No one in this world would ever move forward to become the person they want to be.

Navigating change involves several key components.

First, you must communicate clearly. All stakeholders need to understand the reasons for change and how it will benefit them. Why and how are policies and procedures going to be different? Are jobs at stake? How quickly will changes take effect?

Equally important is leading by example. Leadership should model adaptability and openness to change, setting the tone for the organization. This step is often a roadblock to implementing change because management is just as afraid to make mistakes as their staffs, knowing that the buck stops with them.

Finally, be available and willing to provide support. Offer training and resources to help employees transition smoothly through changes. Celebrate victories and recognize the efforts of your staff to adapt. 

Being open to corporate change is most successful when the individuals involved are personally open to change. Accepting that there might be a different or better way of doing things can be difficult for people who are accustomed to business as usual.  

But when business as usual is not producing desired results, individual participation is central to implementing needed changes. Those employees who can adapt will flourish in both professional and personal roles. 

Personal adaptability to change is a critical skill in today's fast-paced world. Adaptability helps build resilience. It allows individuals to bounce back from setbacks and navigate life's uncertainties with confidence and poise.

Being adaptable means being open to learning new skills and acquiring knowledge. This mindset keeps you relevant and competitive in your personal and professional life.

When you're adaptable, you're better equipped to handle stress. You can approach challenges with a problem-solving attitude rather than feeling overwhelmed. Adaptability opens doors to new opportunities. By being flexible, you can seize chances that others might miss, whether it's a new job, a project or a personal endeavor. Anticipate changes and prepare for them rather than reacting after the fact.

The toughest thing to change is our approach to change. Maybe it's time for a mind transfusion that welcomes the advent of change. Expect change; it is inevitable. Your decision is to decide whether it is to be by consent or coercion.

Mackay's Moral: Change is the heartbeat of growth. Embrace it, and you'll find opportunity in every challenge.

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Harvey Mackay is the author of the New York Times bestseller "Swim With the Sharks Without Being Eaten Alive." He can be reached through his website, www.harveymackay.com, by emailing [email protected] or by writing him at MackayMitchell Envelope Co., 2100 Elm St. SE, Minneapolis, MN 55414.