The concept of change

I struggle with the idea of change. Who doesn't? The idea that I will have to forgo a concept or routine I am attached to, accepting a new norm that is somewhat uncertain, is daunting. And this can be in every area, from the fear of a new role or dating relationship to everything else that takes us from our comfort zones. A quote by Barbara Kingsolver says, "The changes we dread most may contain our salvation."

The reality of many people, organisations, cultures, and even the world's best systems is the struggle with change. Many people, including myself, are curled up in the daunting career transition process. Starting an entity for the first time is easy, and the idea of a second start is not entirely. However, our failure to embrace change threatens our very existence and survival.

Businesses struggle to meet changing customer behaviour and requirements, necessitating changes to their unique selling proposition, service offerings, and others. These changes involve a fair amount of risk, even in personal terms.

Biblically, the human entity struggled with change even at the beginning. God gave the Mosaic law, one He knew would evolve, to show the progressive essence of embracing change associated with His plan of salvation. He then gave a better solution, the sacrificial death of His only son, Christ, for humankind, once and for all, over the recurring sacrifice of unblemished animals.

From a biblical perspective, humanity has always wrestled with change. The Mosaic law itself reflected a progression, an evolving understanding within a broader divine plan. Ultimately, this evolution led to a new expression of faith centred on redemption and transformation.

Today, the world still struggles with these archaic concepts, even when the new way preaches love. I dare to say with the happenings around these regions today. Change is still far-fetched.

A Yoruba proverb E̩ jé̩ k'a ṣé bí wó̩n ń ṣé ń ṣé, kí ó ba lè rí bí ó ń ṣé ń rí translates, 'let's do it the way they usually do it, so it can turn out the way it usually turns out. Hasn't that phrase started to fail many of us today? That equation doesn't quite add up. Nigeria is in dire need of change, as this status quo threatens the survival of our country. By default, everything around us is changing; our environment, climate and culture are all clamouring for change.

World travel, worship, partying, and work are all hit by various changes. Organisations have gone through digital transformations in the last two years more than in the whole decade. The rapid adoption of hybrid and remote working in developing countries is enormous. Blame it on Covid 19, economic and technological advancements.

The world's design from day one was to evolve and change. Yet, we struggle to accept this reality. We adapted more rapidly to the changes associated with SARS-CoV-2 than any other kind of change that has hit the human race. And I wonder if the fear of death is related to this. Adapting to these changing times and trends is good for us; otherwise, we risk missing out or fizzling out entirely.

Reflections: A food thought!

Change is uncomfortable and often painful.

Change stretches us and produces growth.

Growth increases our capacity for more.

How open are you to the idea of change?

What's your appetite for change?