Episode 7. Adapting to change

Today I talk about change. Companies reorganize constantly and are planning for the upcoming year: 2021: with that comes a lot of changes.

As I am going through changes myself, I want to share the learnings and thinking I’ve been doing around managing change and I will be sharing that along with tips on how you can navigate the changes in your own life.

Developing adaptability:

Cognitive Flexibility:

  • Continuously scan the environment

  • Use divergent and Integrative thinking—accept differences

  • Challenge own and others assumptions—accept new models

Emotional Intelligence

  • Connect with and address others emotions

  • Acknowledge emotions while committing to the change

  • Understand and manage own emotions and uncertainty

Flexible Behaviour

  • Express optimism within uncertainty

  • Uncover and work with paradox and tension

  • Involve key people in the change

Ask yourself these questions:

  • Of the three elements, which one comes most easily or naturally to you?

  • Of the three elements, which one is most difficult for you?

  • For this trait, what is one behavior you could develop to improve your overall adaptability?

Identify the fear that lie behind the change will be very helpful : what scares you? What are you afraid to loose? What hardships are you expecting?

Then focus on what you can do about it, what plan you can put in place to successful transition through the change.

Navigating the Transition   

The transition curve involves three stages: the Letting Go Stage, the Limbo stage and the New Beginning stage. What emotions, fears, or feelings are you experiencing?

Letting go tips

  • Acknowledge what are you losing or gaining

  • Understand what is changing and what is staying the same

  • How are you feeling about the change?

  • Allow yourself some time to grieveask for support and information

  • Begin to think about the benefits of the change

  • Act on issues within your control: your attitude and behaviors

Limbo tips

  • Be patient

  • Step back and take stock

  • Get involved/ take action

  • Provide ideas and suggestions

  • Learn as much as you can: develop your skills

  • Be creative

  • Talk to people with a positive outlook and see what they are doing

  • Set short-term goals consistent with the new directio

  • Support others

  • Build trust

New beginning tips

  • Be proactive

  • Explore options and new opportunities

  • Be sure you understand the new direction

  • Solicit feedback to validate your perceptions with others

  • Celebrate successes

I hope these tools are helpful to you, don’t hesitate to continue the conversation in the comments or on Instagram @theincubateher

Support the show by making a contribution.

Pauline FrançoisComment