A Dirty Word

Change- We are all creatures of habit, and one thing that no one truly loves is change.  I guess that is not entirely true, we don't really mind change when we can see the obvious benefits that are headed our way, but when there is even the slightest bit of uncertainty, change can be devastating!  I have found that the only way to avoid change though is to stop breathing!  I recently reread John Maxwell's book "Developing the Leader Within You".  In it, he has a pretty remarkable quote..."the only thing that stays the same is the fact that change will always happen".  Not sure if I got that exactly right, but you get the idea.  

As we face change, or as we "cause/carryout" change, keep these three things in mind:

1.  Information is key...make sure that everyone is well informed about the changes that you are about to make.  The more info that they have, the less uncertainty they will have, the less uncertainty = the less anxiety.

2.  Listen...Listen...and Listen some more.  Most people will get on board with the change you are proposing, if they feel like they have had a voice.  It is the people who are not able to communicate their frustrations to anyone who will cause the problems.

3.  Pray... before making any change or talking about any change, bathe the issue in prayer.  It is only by the Grace of God that any change will succeed.  We deal with people, and we are unable to impact their hearts the way that the Creator of their hearts can.  Keep going to Him with the plan, and make sure that it is centered on His will!!!

For the record, change usually equals growth!!!