Change Strategy Means Flexibility!
04/14/03
Seth Godin lets us know that surviving is not enough: "All corporate strategy has been based on one fundamental assumption: We can predict the future and influence its course through our actions. The role of zooming in strategy is simple. It's based on the idea that you don't know what's going to happen. You overlay a new strategy on top of all your other strategies. Build a company that's so flexible and responsive in the short and long term that you don't care what happens. As long as there's a lot of noise and disorganization and change, you'll win. In today's world, betting on chaos is the safest bet of all."
The media has a way of being preoccupied by plans and whether this or that plan failed to produce the desired result, but those involved in the fluid nature of change know that plans seldom happen as designed. As you pick up speed, change leaders know the importance of flexible course-corrections as opportunities and challenges emerge. Chaos is actually comforting to leaders who build chaos into their plan. When you expect setbacks, unanticipated opportunities, and creative competition on the road to success, you are challenged instead of thrown by such realities. Instead of panicking in the face of the noise and news of real-life change, teams can see it as part of the journey. As you approach your own changes, build the expectation of flexible problem-solving into your strategies so that your team can take pride in executing a resourceful response to whatever comes its way. Years from now, you and your people will be able to take pride in having weathered through and thrived in the midst of difficult times. In short, make plans that are flexible and then keep moving on the rocky road to a profitable and meaningful future. Leaders don't sit there waiting for others to clear up the chaos; leaders lead through the chaos one step at a time.
A PAULSON QUOTE OF THE WEEK
"The best leaders have a focused vision. Unfortunately, the biggest difference between a vision and a hallucination are the number of people who can see it. Don't just have a vision--communicate it; drive it; and use it every day." --Terry L. Paulson, PhD, CSP, CPAE
MONDAY'S MIRTHFUL MOMENT
Dr. Ann Weeks, via Betsy V., again provides our mirthful moment for today--"Year 2035 Headlines!" Enjoy:
1. Authentic year 2000 'Chad' sells at Southeby's for $4.6 million.
2. George Z. Bush says he will run for President in 2036.
3. Postal Service raises price of First Class Stamp to $17.89 and reduces mail delivery to Wednesday only.
4. 35 year study Diet and exercise is the key to weight loss.
5. Supreme Court rules punishment of criminals violates their civil rights.
6. New Federal law requires that all nail clippers, screw- drivers, fly swatters, and rolled up newspapers must be registered by January 2036.
7. Baby conceived naturally... Scientists stumped.
When you keep your eyes open for mirth, you just may find it! Hope this kicks off your morning and helps get your mood adjusted for the week. Now, get busy MAKING CHANGE WORK and have some fun along the way!...