Why Big Changes Fail (and What to Do Instead)

I've been thinking a lot lately about the nature of change. Change is something we all aspire to, whether it's in our personal lives or in our professional endeavors. Yet, for all our grand visions and lofty goals, lasting change often remains elusive.

You see, the world around us often glorifies the idea of seismic shifts - those dramatic, sweeping changes that promise to alter the course of our lives or businesses almost overnight. Whether it's completely overhauling a department or setting ambitious goals like hitting the gym daily, these massive shifts seem tantalizing. But in my reflections, I've come to see that they often come with their own set of pitfalls.

The problem? Seismic shifts, while grand in intention, aren't always sustainable. They can feel too rapid, leading to resistance and fatigue. In the corporate realm, these shifts can create an environment of fear and uncertainty, stifling innovation and genuine communication. And logistically, trying to apply a one-size-fits-all solution can be akin to fitting a square peg into a round hole—it simply doesn’t work in the long run.

But what if we've been looking at change all wrong? What if the key isn't in those grand gestures, but in the subtle, incremental shifts? These smaller changes are aligned with our core values, and they're both scalable and sustainable.

You know, there's a saying that Rome wasn't built in a day. And I believe that's the essence of real transformation. It's not about the sprint; it's the marathon. It's the continuous commitment to those small, purposeful shifts in mindset and behavior.

So, as we venture ahead, let’s remember: the most profound transformations might just come from the quietest, most subtle shifts. Let's embrace the patience and resilience this approach demands and truly understand that change, at its best, is a journey taken one step at a time.

Wishing you a week of thoughtful reflection and meaningful change.

All the best,

Matt

P.S.  I shot a couple of quick videos last week to elaborate on this idea and you can check them out by clicking here and here. If you like them please drop in a comment, like them and share them with someone that might need to hear the message.