Dear Friends
When the railroads were first introduced to the US, some folks feared
that they’d be the downfall of the nation! Here’s an excerpt from a letter to
then President Jackson dated January 31, 1829.
As you may know, Mr. President, the railroad carriages are pulled at the
enormous speed at 15 mph by engines, which, in addition to endangering life and
limb of passengers, roar and snort their way through the countryside, setting
fire to crops, scaring the livestock, and frightening women and children. The
Almighty certainly never intended that people should travel at such breakneck
speed. Martin, Van Buren, governor of New York.
Over 25 years ago as a young pastor, I learned that change is not
always easy to accept. I remember the congregational uproar the
first time I decided to jettison my robe for less formal attire. Some
in the church were not ready for such a 'drastic' change.
I laugh about it today as I know the church and the present
pastor, and I'm certain they would react in the same way should he
decide to exchange his casual attire for that of a robe.
Change is never easy, and many people will fight and resist it,
even if the change is rational and makes logical sense.
It is natural to become attached to tradition and hard for many to
accept doing things differently. Change can cause discomfort, but discomfort is
the price you pay for change. If change doesn't cause
some discomfort, it is probably not change.
Some leaders take the approach that their people will get used to
change, so let's just move on and not worry about how those who disagree with
that change might feel.
However, often their insensitivity to the way their
people may feel and react to change may unfortunately cause them the
loss of valuable members.
In leading change let me suggest some important things to keep in
mind.
1. Never minimize the impact that even small change can
have on people, especially those who have been a part of that church
for a long time. What is a seemingly a small change to you, may be a momentous
change to others.
2. In leading change it is wise to move from the 'stage' to the
'table'. One who leads from the stage may be effective in casting vision and
making persuasive presentations. Everyone may listen and be impressed, but
inwardly, no matter how persuasive the leader may be, there will be some
who will undoubtedly resist the change. Logical arguments
for change don't always resonate with your people.
What is needed is 'table' leadership. You need to gather people
together around the table where they can express themselves.
As a leader, you need to sit down at the table with your people
and openly discuss the reasons and rationale for change. You need to be a good
listener and you should encourage dialogue and discussion and provide
opportunities for people to speak who may be opposed to the change. When
gathered around the table, people become less formal and begin to open up with
each other as they honestly share their feelings and concerns.
3. Accept the fact that some of the best thinking is done
with others. Leaders who think they know the best answers miss a great
opportunity for the kind of collaborative leadership that can provide
valuable additional insights. The more input you have from others who may share
different perspectives, the better will be the outcome.
4. Encourage people to personally share their thoughts with you
and give them your cell phone number and invite them to text you with
additional thoughts and insights. Expressing genuine concern, especially to
those who may be reluctant to accept a particular change, is important in
winning people over to you your perspective.
5. Always remember that people must have reasons for change. They
must be able to see the value of change, and a good leader will never stop
communicating the value and benefits of change that he envisions.
Yours in faith and friendship,
Tom
P.S. Keep in mind what Mark Twain once said: "The only
one who likes change is a wet baby."
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