From one perspective, everything is in a constant state of change; the only thing that seems to remain unchanged is our denial of or resistance to the changing nature of things.
From another perspective, change and transformation refer to corporate programs that must be designed and rolled out. Yet when we speak of Personal Transformation, Organizational Transformation, or Change-Management Programs, what are we trying to change, and are we able to be effective at producing real transformation or not?
Many conventional Change Initiatives or Renewal Programs simply herald the adoption of a new batch of jargon and strategic initiatives that get swallowed up by the same old process of charters, endless meetings, project-planning spreadsheets, slide presentations, and the inevitable replacement of one change-agenda for the new "flavor of the month."
Is anything or anyone truly transformed? Changed? Renewed? Revitalized?
How often is something mindlessly overhauled when, in truth, what's needed is an honest assessment and perhaps some fine-tuning to emphasize the strengths that are already in place? How often is something simply fine-tuned, when what's needed is no less than a real, radical, shaken-to-the-core transformation? Can you inject and expect new thoughts and ways of being and working in an old or pre-existing system that was created to serve other ends, via other means?
The very words change and transformation speak of "altering markedly" the very nature of a thing. The word renewal suggests restoration or revitalization to make something new again. These are dynamic and powerful words with dynamic and powerful possibilities, despite being used quite mindlessly in too many cases.
What would it mean to ask these questions when looking at how we might renew, re-envision, transform or change as individuals and as organizations, or groups of people? The times call for asking such questions, and others as well. Transformation is underway; the option before us is how conscious and engaged we are in it.
In this portal, we'll offer a few perspectives and resources on what it might mean to really transform, evolve, and renew your organization (or yourself!), or at least begin a dialogue about the purpose and possibilities of such a thing. Have questions? We welcome your inquiry.