Making Waves

Our Children's Ministry Director recently gave me an article to read about change. Creating healthy change is a big part of leadership. Environments of change should not be "change for the sake of change, but change for the sake of progress." This article by Larry Shallenberger highlights some important steps to consider when going down the path toward change.

Brain Waves

Effective change begins in the mind of the leader. It is important to carefully analyze the change you are thinking about instituting. This analyzing should include considering the dynamics that will come into play in your situation. So, be sure to start with this question - what do I hope to accomplish through this change?

Sound Waves

Now that you are clear and the why's of your change begin to think about how you will communicate this change. Shallenberger says, "Lasting change always starts with the invisible and progresses to the visible. Change minds before structures." So, the second question is - can you make a compelling case for your change in two sentences?

Light Waves

Once you have communicated the change and the reason for this change you are ready for implementation. In most cases, if the reasons are communicated clearly and in a compelling way this step should not be to difficult. The important thing to remember here is to execute with excellence. So, the third question is - what do we need to do to launch this change with 

excellence? It is during this wave that you can go to great lengths to build trust with your team. Trust from your team will come as you communicate with them and get them the needed resources to help with the launch of the change.

Shock Waves

Harvard Business Professor Leonard Schlesinger says this, "By accomplishing anything of value, a whole segment of the population will not appreciate what you are doing." So when the waves come - how should we respond to criticism? 

• Listen Graciously
• Honor this person for having the courage to come and confront you
• Lead with Strength

If you are convinced that this change is right for your organization, be careful not to shrink back when criticized. Nothing creates confusion faster than a wavering leader. Remain steady and have the courage to continue implementing your change.

Change is a part of life. Organizations that are unwilling to change soon become ineffective. So, be willing to make waves for the sake of moving forward.