Why Change is Difficult

Change has been a buzzword since President Obama rode it to victory in last fall’s election. And while he has been credited with being the one to bring it to the American political system (which he indeed has) it was really the public that was demanding change in the systems that are so entrenched in our society. Every six or seven decades the American public recognizes that it needs help in re-inventing the systems that govern our lives. With the collapse of the banking, housing and automobile industries we are once again reminded that our history is to wait until catastrophy strikes before making the changes we need to make. “Why is change so difficult?” asks one of my students attempting to understand the challenges before many leaders. The simple answer is because no one has the ability to change anyone else. A leader has two choices: one, is to entice change out of people through the carrot or stick method or two, is to inspire people by demonstrating the ideals, behaviors and goals they wish to achieve. What so many of us want is for someone else to do the changing so that it won’t seem so daunting for us. Which really brings us back to the key idea . . . change happens and leaders are born when an individual stands up and decides that they are going to do something different. When that person changes themselves then they are able to ‘walk their talk’ and show others how. And by doing that leadership becomes as easy as breathing . . .Take a deep breath and give it a try . . . inspire others by giving your gifts to the world because your country and your President need your help!!