“Get Used to Different”

A few years ago, I gave a DisruptHR talk inspired by a soda koozie turned pen cup.

Now, it feels opportune to write about my travel mug. (No, it’s not a slow day for blogging.)

My mug says, “Get used to different,” which is both a tagline for The Chosen, my favorite show, and the motto I’ve adopted for my career. I never wanted to be a cog in a machine. My goal is always to bring positive change.

Views on Change

When we think of our own contributions and innovations, seeing them as good is easy.

Then, why do we so often see change as negative?

Even when the current state is lackluster, glitchy or flawed, the known is considered better than the unknown.

If change is absolutely necessary, we often prefer Lewin's unfreeze, refreeze approach to change. However, change is rarely that neat and tidy.

Responding to Change

While trite, it’s true – the only constant is change, and the rate of change is accelerating. There’s no stopping it.

Instead of grumbling or burying our heads in the sand, the time has come for us to respond to change with curiosity and by identifying a source of agency. When we identify a place of autonomy, we can engage with what’s new and different from a place of relative safety and control.

In a sea of unknowns, finding the island of autonomy provides a launch pad from which to embrace change. Begin by dipping your toe. Then, as you prepare to wade in, identify how you can contribute. By participating in the change, it doesn’t happen to you. Instead, you get to shape the future.

To the Point

Go on - jump in the water, make waves and get used to different.

(Get ready. Season 6 of The Chosen comes out on Nov. 15!)    

Image sources: HR Courses Online, personal photos and Wix GIFs