how to change?

Maybe the word incentive could be replaced with motivation, but then again change is not easy. I think the figure attached to this blog is a pretty good visual picture that shows that CHANGE can only be achieved if a lot of components are adressed. Even a simple figure shows more than a tonnes of words. Sometime there are too many words and too little action involved in change initiatives.

I have experienced quite a few change management processes - and I have learned a few things, of which one is the most important: most people have different NEEDS in change processes and also personal timelines for adapting to change. And IF you respect that this is the case a lot more people are willing to change along with you.  

Of course you have to communicate the WHY there is a need for change, but even if this is so integrated in change processes a lot of people forget this part. 

So have a vision, be specific, communicate the WHY there is a need for change, accept that people have different timelines for change - and then be firm in your execution of change

Everyone needs to practice

Do you want to become awesome at your hobby, job or relationship? Well, practice then. In all things it helps to train, work out or in other way practice. This is not just in sports - or workrelated matters that it counts to be prepared and work hard. One of the areas that I really see a difference in my own development is on the personal level. There more I work on developing my own knowledge about my core values, my behavior with other people, group dynamics or leadership - the more I develop myself. I am positive that this is possible for you too. So is there some things that you really want to become good at? In your private life or your professional life? Then describe the area to yourself - and find out where or who that can help you. It can be a personal coach (really made a difference for me), a mentor, a friend or loved one.  In any case you often need a little push, because the first steps are the hardest. Do you have the courage to take the first steps?

Remember: anyone can be cool, but awesome takes practice. 

What can you do?

You can do a lot. You can be an example for others. It almost sounds tacky, but seriously there is so much that will change in this world if you lead by example. People around you are willing to follow you to the end of the world if the purpose is noble and meaningful. 

So what IS meaningful in our fast speeding world? Well, development of society around us is one meaningful reason to make a difference. Often I think about the world as I would like my children to experience it ten or twenty years from now - or my future grandchildren. I personally want to influence the people I work with or have in my local/national community. Through CSR efforts (look at www.csr.gl) , mentoring young entrepreneurs and through my professional work in TELE-POST. Also I like blogging - hopefully to stir up some action-oriented people that are willing to debate with me, but also rolemodels for people around us. Are you one of those people - or is this too out of reach for you where you are in life right now. 

I can make a change personally - and I can see it! The challenge for me is to have more people come on board with me. Any suggestions?

Energy accounting on a PERSONAL level →

What is that concept all about, you might ask?

Well, to me it is a fine line that distinguish what brings energy into your life - and what drain energy in your life.

Have you noticed how some tasks, some people and some situations simply just drain your energy? Or can you think of examples where you just seem to come out of a meeting or situation and feel revitalized?

I sure can.

I get energy from meeting people that are upbeat, enthusiastic or have a vision. And even more from communicating with people. I get energy from being part of a project, work task or simply just a situation where I can FEEL the energy. Typically I contribute - either by being upbeat or being visibly annoyed. This is very often what happens for me, since I am influenced by the people around me. The ENERGY in a room is being influenced by the people AND their mindset, attitude and body language. Do you agree?

Personally I try to keep tabs. I try to notice WHEN, WHERE and HOW I get energy - and also when I loose it. The more I notice, the more I am able to influence a CHANGE in energy, just by being myself. I think that people that know me well, or have worked with me will testament to the fact that my energy levels are high - and that I mostly contribute with positive energy.

Try to make a line on a paper, okay? Then put ALL the things that give you energy on one side - and ALL the things (or situations or people) that drain your energy on the other side. Does it give you new insight or make it visible what YOU can do to change the energy?

It works for me. Please give me some feedback if it works for you - or you have other methods to register ENERGY.

What humour can do for a team?

Have you noticed how easy the atmosphere in team can be if there is humour involved? I have noticed that when the group of people I engage with has a touch of humour in the discussions - even in difficult times - then things flow easier. I believe that we as human beings are suffocated if every work situation is grave, serious and in a dark type of atmosphere. I believe that a somewhat upbeat atmosphere engages people on a more fundamental level - and people start building relationships on a deeper level. Maybe a somewhat naive way of looking at things, but nonetheless a proven concept in my business world. Again it has something to do with ENERGY. Energy is the source of group dynamics and this is a lesson I have made over 20+ years of leadership roles.

YOU can change the dynamics in a group by contributing actively with humour. Just be aware that humour is very culturally bound, so you need to develop your own tools of how to do it.  

Currently I have a management team with tonnes of humour. Room for the important, but also room to make jokes and have a blast. In my opion so important i. A high-performing team. 

What do you think? Comments are welcome