Rolling With Change – Despite “Impossible” Odds

We’re constantly reminded that the only constant is change and that ideal employees embrace and champion change.  Entrepreneurs are always thinking about what is next in an attempt to stay ahead of change.  I personally have never been in an environment where change was not a daily or weekly encounter.  In fact, change occurs so regularly in my professional life, that I am uncertain if I would be comfortable with stability, which is an ironic statement, and the topic of this post.

I grew up in an age where technology rules and still rules today.  The pace of change in technology has set the tone and pace for everything I know and is the new way of business.  I expect a certain evolution to everything.  If my favorite tablet, e-reader, Smart phone, etc does not have a new edition each year, I feel as though a part of my life is “outdated”.  I look at those products and companies as “behind the times” and surely at risk of losing the technology race. 

As our favorite products and subsequent way of life are always in a state of change, so is the way we work.  It’s expected by employees and employers alike.  However, what are the implications of this expectation?  Can it ever be a disadvantage?  I have a couple thoughts.  

There are times when I do think the pace of change I am accustomed to is not ideal.  When an initiative begins to take hold that I’ve worked to put together, I am quick to doubt it and look for flaws in anticipation of the next iteration.  I know change is inevitable, so I occasionally find my anticipation of change overshadowing my ability to embrace the present.

However, the rate of change, especially in the technology industry is not likely to slow down.  Members of the workforce that find this difficult will need to evolve or get out of the way.  I consider this to be a greater disadvantage.  Often, the difference between an average and high potential employee is the difference between someone who is proactive and reactive to change.  I recommend being proactive.  Being reactive is not only damaging to a person’s long term career goals, but also to the business they support. 

There also comes a point where someone crosses the line from reactive to resistant.  I highly recommend you not be resistant to change.  It will damage your reputation, inhibit your success, and could potentially cost you your job.

Change is ever present and evoking of opinions.  What’s your opinion on this topic?