How does change happen? This is perhaps one of those questions that generate unending debates. We attach names like Colo, Stubborn, Anti-progress, Inflexible, Old school, etc to people in our organizations that resist change. Seldom do we speak of the traditionalists in flattering terms. When was the last time you heard a colleague praised for displaying prudence or circumspection? We admire the innovators and futurists, not the purists.
In leadership, impeding change isn't trendy nowadays. Need evidence? Tune into the national news and watch political opponents jockey for position as the candidate of CHANGE. Obama rode on change. Attah-Mills did same. Sameness and stability are out; newness is in vogue.
As leaders, we face the daunting challenge of inspiring change. Consequently, the resistors of change can easily become our chief adversaries. We may see them as obstacles to be rolled aside, pushed uphill, or sidestepped and left to collect dust.
The secret to getting ahead is getting started."
~ Mark Twain
"One today is worth two tomorrows."
~ Ben Franklin
"If you can't feed 1,000 people, then feed one."
~ Mother Teresa
"Whatever you do, or dream you can, begin it. Boldness has genius and power and magic in it."
~ Johann Wolfgang von Goethe.