Monday, March 30, 2020

A Return to the Rosetta Stone of Change

Right now, we are spending so much time in planning mode to create an organization that will be nimble, flexible and agile in the midst of COVID-19. We want continued quality in products and services. We want our staff to be empowered, and we want all leaders to act in a principle-centered manner.

However, we rarely ask the questions, “What if it all works?” I know we ask the question regularly about “What if this all does not work?”. We explore worst case scenarios but we rarely think about best case scenarios right now. When we answer the question, “What if it all works?”, we need to remember the old Haitian adage, “After mountains will be more mountains.” Successful implementation of a plan does not lead to the absence of problems. It merely leads to new problems. 

I continually stress to leaders that the “Rosetta Stone” of successful implementation of a plan is not about events, but about people, acting and living with integrity, confidence, and commitment. It is about partnership and courage. It is about clarity and action being in alignment. 

The “Rosetta Stone” also reminds us that effective change is never the return to a former condition, but the drawing of a larger and more inclusive circle where all involved feel respected. Then all involved understand and want to be a part of what is happening. 

Finally, the “Rosetta Stone” of change reminds us that quality, empowerment, and principle-centered leadership are all a part of people making a difference in our communities, our society, and our world. And given current events, we need everyone to make a difference in their own way at work and at home.

This week, ask yourself and your team, “What if it all works?” Then, focus on progress over perfection, recognizing that new problems will arise and this will always be part of the on-going journey.

Geery Howe, M.A. Consultant, Executive Coach, Trainer in Leadership, Strategic Planning and Organizational Change Morning Star Associates 319 - 643 - 2257

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