The Art of Change Framework is a proven 5-step model for embracing change be it in yourself, your relationships, your workplace/organization. In a previous post I outlined the 5 steps in this model – https://pamela-thompson.com/strengthen-impact-world-dance-change/. In subsequent posts I identified the powerful practices associated with each step in the process. This article will focus on step 5 in the Art of Change Framework entitled Consciously Share Your Dance with the World.
We know that when we change, others around us notice these changes and either choose to follow us or resist the changes we are modelling. An example is personal growth work. If one partner in a relationship wants to learn and grow and begins reading about personal growth and attending workshops or receiving coaching to learn and grow, and their partner is not on the same wavelength, the partner who wants to maintain the status quo may feel threatened by the changes in the other’s behaviour. For example, having a spiritual connection when your partner is an atheist or becoming more assertive in conversations instead of not saying much or always acquiescing to the other partner’s wishes. Does this sound familiar? When we change, we influence those around us.
During step 5 in the Art of Change Framework, it is important to observe the positive changes in yourself, how others respond to you, and the positive impact you are having on your family, friends, communities and workplaces.
As a leader in an organization, you will notice the difference among people who either resist or embrace changes that you initiate. The tables below identify the typical differences between those who resist and those who embrace change.
What happens in Ourselves, Our Relationships and Our Workplaces when We Resist Change versus Embrace it?
OURSELVES
|
Resist |
Embrace |
| We view change as a threat |
We view change as an opportunity to learn and grow and as a creative process that opens us up to new opportunities |
| We feel:
o Angry o Depleted o Low in energy o Victimized · The increased stress over time negatively impacts our health; can lead to chronic illness and negatively affect our career paths
|
We feel:
o Open o Excited o Energized o Nonjudgmental · Over time we are more relaxed, more flexible and open to creative ideas · Our health may be positively impacted as we feel supported by those around us and that we are contributing to something greater than ourselves; may positively impact our career paths |
| In our interactions with others we:
o Are not totally present o Are judgmental o May be argumentative |
In our interactions with others we:
o Are present o Are mindful o Seek to understand and support others |
OUR RELATIONSHIPS
|
Resist |
Embrace |
| o Strained
o Reactive o Judgmental o Characterized by increased conflict o We feel alone, victimized and that others don’t understand us |
o Open
o Responsive o Curious o Characterized by increased understanding, creativity and compassion o We feel part of something and supported |
OUR WORKPLACES
|
RESIST o Increased conflict – “us” versus “them” mentality o Reduced morale o Reduced engagement o Little innovation o Increased illness and absenteeism o Negative impact on the bottom line |
EMBRACE o Increased cooperation, collaboration and synergy o Increased morale o Increased engagement o Creativity and Innovation o Reduced absenteeism o Positive impact on the bottom line |
Learning how to embrace change and understanding how we respond to it, is critical to positively influencing our families, friends, communities and workplaces. Learning and implementing the 5-step Art of Change Framework helps you understand how you respond to change and is a tool to support you and your team(s) to embrace it. In these challenging and uncertain times, now more than ever, we need proven processes to support individuals and leaders in communities and organizations to make a positive difference in the world.
What have you noticed in yourself, your relationships and/or your work environments when they are characterized by embracing versus resisting change? What aspects of the Art of Change Framework have you found most useful? Any new insights? I invite and welcome your comments below.
Thank you very much for this Pamela!
I love the contrast you make between the effects of resisting and embracing .
It’s totally clear in my mind what I aught to embrace
Hi Leila, Thanks for your feedback. Yes, I find it interesting to contrast resisting and embracing change. When we examine the differences It helps us realize how important embracing change is. To be successful in life and in business it is critical.
Powerful post, Pamela. I plan to save this and reread a few times. Too much to take in on one reading!
Hi Laurie, Happy you found the post helpful and worth rereading. I understand there is a lot in the tables! Change and embracing it is so important for us all in life and in business.
I talk a lot about this topic with those I work with. I love your easy to understand charts. BAM! Thank you for sharing such great wisdom.
Hi Laura, Thanks for your thoughtful feedback. Happy you found the charts useful 🙂
As a fixed sign I have a challenge at times being open to change…especially when it is forced or imposed on me or the situation. I’m much better when I choose to change. As I’ve practiced recognizing my resistance(s) and being open to shift away from it, I see how much more effortlessly life flows. Your examples above are very helpful to see the differences it can make in our life! Thank you!
Hi Beverley, Thanks for sharing your experience with change. I believe many people are challenged when change is imposed on them rather than when they choose it themselves. It is so true that when we let go of beliefs and behaviors that are holding us back, life does flow more effortlessly. Happy you found the differences between embracing and resisting change helpful. It you’d like more tips on how to navigate change feel free to read my previous blogs on the Art of Change Framework and/or sign up for my Transition Journey Quiz and Tips. Warm Regards, Pam
Thank you. It is useful to see this process, which we are all in, all of the time in all areas of our lives. Resistance is normalized as one predictable response. This chart is useful in creating change, anticipating resistance and making choices. Thank you.
Hello Meghan, Happy you found the post of value. Thanks for your thoughtful comments. Warmly, Pam