If there is one thing that we can be sure of, it is that Change will happen. It is a natural, inevitable part of life and remains one of the most important factors affecting our lives today. Perhaps more than at any other time in human history the speedy infusion of new ideas, knowledge, products and services is creating unprecedented and amazing possibilities for everyone. Those who work in IT, software development and other similar technical areas will tell you that they may start a project using a particular suite of software and by the time the project ends, there is a new version available or sometimes a completely new way of doing things. They have to keep abreast of the Changes or they might find that they have lost their edge or that their skills have become obsolete.
A similar trend exists in the business world as well. Would-be entrepreneurs not only have to develop a business model that meets market demands and deliver a return on investment, in order to survive; they have to Change their strategies as well as adapt and adopt new technologies to their models.
The puzzling thing is that most people know this and yet Change is often resisted. Why? Human beings are creatures of habit. We loathe the idea of leaving the comfort zone even when it doesn’t serve our best interests.
The high achiever knows that growth is a precursor to success – and that growth occurs only when you are willing to embrace Change and move out of your comfort zone. Which category do you fit into? Do you want to affect and control Change?
Or do you want simply to be affected and have your life directed by Change? As Charles Darwin wrote over 150 years ago, “It is not the strongest of the species that survive, nor the most intelligent, but the one most responsive to Change.”
Darwin knew even then that although Change was inevitable, we do have the ability to determine its effect on our lives.
Perhaps we should stop being so surprised that things Change in the first place. Remember; she is your friend–a gentle reminder that there are greater things in store for you.
Successful people, whether they be entrepreneurs or executives; students or teachers; trades people or professionals, embrace Change… they are always learning and developing new skills, and thereby having a much greater chance of remaining relevant in this increasingly competitive world in which we all must live. Successful companies invariably are those that research and develop new products and strategies, and implement new systems. These companies and the people who make up these successful companies are motivated at every level to step out of their comfort zones; to be open to fresh ideas; to allow themselves to see the possibility of Change. As the historian Eric Hoffer wrote, “In times of Change, learners inherit the Earth, while the learned find themselves beautifully equipped to deal with a world that no longer exists.”
Keep On Pushing!
As an original member of the 1988 Jamaican bobsled team and captain of the 1992 and 1998 teams; 3-time Olympian, Devon Harris achieved his grand dream – his current dream is to inspire others to achieve theirs. Tapping the same energy, determination and skills that enabled him to bobsled with the best in the world, Devon, as a motivational speaker is now sparking audiences of all ages to dream big and take their “game” to the next level.
