We resist change for various reasons, we're creatures of habit after all. The trouble is that change is inevitable, so our ability to manage change will at some time or another, if not constantly, be put to the test.
When learning how to adapt to and manage change it is helpful to understand the basic emotional responses we have to change, which are:
Immobilisation - Shock and confusion.
Denial - "It can't be true."
Anger - Feeling cheated by the introducer or the change.
Bargaining - When you begin to air opinions and explore suggestions.
Depression - Victim syndrome sets in leading to depression.
Testing - Realisation that change will take place is reached and adaptations are made.
Acceptance - The final stage, at which point you either succumb to pressure to change or see enough reason to change.
In Management (as in life) change is constant. Management is about change and learning to manage change is what makes real leaders.
Email info@StaffTraining.co.za for more info on our Managing Change workshop or call (021) 839 3021