How often do employees have great ideas only to have them pushed aside by their superior? How many times do companies find they continually under perform when competition is performing well? How many managers focus on how things have always been done and steer clear of any possibility of change?
This is a common problem because as human beings, we seek what makes us comfortable. However, when you are a leader, representing a shared goal, you have to be willing to embrace change. Flexibility and being open to other options allows you to meet market demands, technology transitions, and employee expectations. Embracing change also means taking a risk in the hopes of improvement. This means change can lead to both good and bad results, but a good leader is open to both outcomes.
The next time you find yourself sticking to what is comfortable, step outside of your comfort zone and attempt to make a change. Realize that without this evolution, improvements cannot be made. Even if it means scrapping a program you created, letting go of a policy you made that was applauded at the time, or replacing equipment you have worked with since the birth of your company, you must learn to let go to grow. Leaders understand this, and embrace changes with enthusiasm, hope, and flexibility.
Leading and Inspiring 