This catchphrase (above) has been attached to more than a few fanatical approaches to business management, religious transformation, and personal well-being. (just Google it and see what I mean)
Catchy as it may be to sell books and stir up emotions, I believe it is underwhelming in its oversimplification. It leaves out the most important factor that needs to be considered when you are looking at any type of significant change: Timing.
If you find yourself struggling with how to respond to a significant change right now, perhaps you will find value in looking at a theory called The Time Zones of Change:
Time Zone 1:
A Time OF Change
Something is happening around you, it's not personal just yet, but external forces are in flux. (i.e. the economy, a change in ownership, shifting client needs, an increased competitive culture, or perhaps your kids are growing up and moving on)
Note: a Time OF Change does not necessarily mean that you must change. In fact, some times during times OF change, the most prudent approach is to stay steadfast and be the voice of consistency during this time of tumult.
YOUR BEST ASSET TO RELY ON:
Lead with your head
- stay alert and observant
Time Zone 2:
A Time FOR Change
Now, you are directly impacted by those external forces and it has become personal. Something you value highly is being challenged or a new opportunity has come to light. There's an unsettled feeling you have that suggests what 'is so' no longer fully works for you. But, you may not have clear direction on what is next.
Note: a Time FOR Change may be the time when the most effective action you take is research, exploring your options and gathering the necessary data to determine your next step.
KEY ASSET TO RELY ON:
Lead with your heart - pay attention to what you value
Time Zone 3:
A Time TO Change
A threshold has been crossed and there is an intuitive and deep sense that
it is time to act. The gain of change now outweighs
both the pain of change as well as any gain of status quo.
Note: Trust yourself to manage any outcome. You are stronger than you think.
KEY: Lead with your hands and feet - time for action!
If you are wrestling with change right now, before you leap to the 'change or die' mentality OR remain mired in energy-draining inertia....check which Time Zone you might be in.
And, instead of 'Change or Die', try this visual aid on for size:
