Several months ago one of my mentors shared the following leadership equation with me:
Change –> Conflict –> Growth
The steps to this process hold true almost 100% of the time, albeit in varying degrees. And while we ALL want growth, most of us are uncomfortable with change and we run as fast as we can from conflict. But here’s the thing: you don’t get to grow without going through the other two. It’s a principle of leadership.
So, if you want growth in your personal life or your family or your business or your organization, start looking for what you need to change. And once you make the change, you’d better be ready for conflict. But it’s only when you push through both of these that you begin to see growth.
By the way, we’ll discuss this principle and others like it in our bi-monthly Leadership Forum that’ll begin in February. You can read about it here, or email me if you want more info. We’ll have signups soon, but take note: there will be homework, so it’s not for the faint of heart.
So, let’s discuss. Where have you recently experienced the pressure of change or conflict? Or where are you seeing growth? Let’s hear it…
Hmmm…I’ve experienced pressure of change and conflict in learning to listen better, especially when people give me constructive criticism. My first reaction is to be bitter or upset or just assume that they don’t understand or are out to get me. But then one day I said “Hey, what if they are right? What if I can do better?” and it helped me to stop and think. And someone even mentioned it to me the other day saying that they noticed a difference. Yay!
I’m also experiencing conflict in saving money, because I love to go out to dinner and go to the movies and saving money doesn’t allow for that much, so I’m trying to look at the things for the long haul and not just the moment.
change is definitley not easy but it is possible.
Jamie, you are so honest. I love it and I love you! Thanks for sharing.