Embracing Change at work
change is an opportunity
Embracing Change: Transforming Our Work and Careers
VP’s, CEO’s and Senior Directors (in every industry) struggle with change. So do new managers, job-seekers, and career changers. Our most inspirational leaders and trusted visionaries face unexpected obstacles every day that make them uncomfortable.
They engage the change, growing and reaching new levels of success
When I work with clients that feel trapped, blocked or resistant to change, I begin by reminding them that being uncomfortable with change is normal. And together we move from a place of discomfort to curiosity. Curiosity feels good.
When we are curious about an unexpected shift in priorities or the conflicting demands of our jobs, we see opportunity. This change inspires us to ask our colleagues direct and assertive questions without judgement:
Help me to understand why this new direction…
I’m curious how this change will…
I wonder if instead of this new priority we could…
In my executive coaching work we practice new habits, like noticing change and relating to it with curiosity rather than frustration or anxiety. Like most things worthwhile, practice takes time and get’s results. Working together, my clients and I develop new skills, embracing change with power and grace.
I invite you to read on, or if you’re curious, book some time and start a conversation about your career journey. I’m here to help
One example of change on this page is generative AI. This evolution of technology is transforming how we learn and communicate, including this article. I’ve used AI as a foundation for this article, and revised it to ensure it aligns with my values.
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As an executive coach working with clients that face tremendous challenges - like you - I introduce new ways of thinking. Fresh perspectives to shake-up consciousness and change our neural pathways. What I’m sharing in this article are teachings from two spiritual traditions not common in the United States - Sufiism and Buddhism - to inspire curiosity. We don’t need to practice or ‘join’ a spiritual tradition for it to provide inspiration and growth. In our work together, reframing challenge leads to big results.
My clients are transformed, making a new impact at work that is visible to everyone
In my work in DEIA consulting and building inclusive workplace cultures, I leverage these ideas to foster openness. To get people with different talents and lived experiences connected, engaged and trusting. I won’t bore you with professional development strategy or professional development frameworks - this article is about embracing change at work, and using curiosity inspired by ancient spiritual traditions. Invest in yourself. Dive-in.
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Change is not limited to our personal lives; it also permeates our work and careers. In today's dynamic and evolving professional landscape, embracing change becomes crucial for success and fulfillment. By integrating the teachings of Buddhism and Sufism into our professional lives, we can navigate the complexities of change, adapt to new circumstances, and unlock our true potential.
1. Embracing the Fluidity of Roles:
Just as everything is impermanent, so too are our roles and positions in the workplace. Buddhism reminds us of the transient nature of identities, encouraging us to detach ourselves from fixed notions of who we are professionally. Sufism teaches us to surrender our ego and embrace the divine plan, which manifests in the form of changes in our careers. By recognizing the fluidity of roles, we can adapt to new responsibilities, seek growth opportunities, and remain open to unexpected paths.
2. Cultivating Resilience and Adaptability:
Change in the workplace often brings challenges and uncertainties. Both Buddhism and Sufism emphasize the importance of resilience and adaptability in the face of adversity. Buddhism's focus on mindfulness and staying present allows us to navigate workplace changes with clarity and composure. Sufism's emphasis on surrendering to the divine plan enables us to embrace unexpected shifts with trust and resilience. By cultivating these qualities, we become more adaptable and better equipped to thrive in a changing work environment.
3. Embracing Lifelong Learning:
Buddhism and Sufism underscore the significance of continuous learning and self-transformation. In the context of our work and careers, this means embracing change as an opportunity for personal and professional growth. Buddhism's emphasis on wisdom and Sufism's focus on the purification of the heart guide us to explore new skills, expand our knowledge, and embrace lifelong learning. By adopting a growth mindset and embracing change as a catalyst for growth, we remain relevant and agile in an ever-evolving workplace.
4. Navigating Uncertainty with Creativity:
Change often introduces uncertainty into our work and careers. Buddhism and Sufism offer tools to navigate uncertainty with creativity and innovation. Buddhism's teachings on non-attachment encourage us to let go of preconceived notions and embrace new possibilities. Sufism's emphasis on interconnectedness reminds us that collaboration and collective wisdom can help us find innovative solutions. By cultivating an open mind, embracing change with creativity, and seeking collaborative approaches, we can turn uncertainty into a catalyst for innovation and professional development.
5. Compassion and Leadership:
Both Buddhism and Sufism emphasize compassion and ethical conduct as essential qualities of leadership. Embracing change in the workplace requires empathy, understanding, and the ability to inspire others through transformation. By embodying compassion, we foster a supportive and inclusive work environment, nurturing the potential of individuals and teams. Through compassionate leadership, we create a culture that embraces change, encourages growth, and achieves collective success.
The big wrap up
Embracing change in our work and careers is essential for growth, fulfillment, and professional success. By integrating the teachings of Buddhism and Sufism, we can navigate the evolving professional landscape with grace, resilience, and a focus on personal and collective well-being. Embracing the fluidity of roles, cultivating resilience and adaptability, embracing lifelong learning, navigating uncertainty with creativity, and practicing compassionate leadership empower us to harness the transformative power of change and unlock our true potential in the workplace. Embrace change, for it is through change that we discover new opportunities, expand our horizons, and create meaningful impact in our work and careers.