By Kathleen Federici, MEd.

According to Mindtools.com, change management is a structured approach for ensuring that changes are thoroughly and smoothly implemented, and that the lasting benefits of change are achieved. According to thebalance.com, change management is the process of helping individuals and the organization transition from the current state to the desired state.

Change happens all the time and is a constant for many of us. Yet, despite the fact that change is all around us, sometimes it’s still quite difficult to process, accept, and adapt to change. This can occur for positive change, a temporary change, or a change that is imposed on us.

To go with the flow can be taken to mean just doing what others do and agreeing with the majority. When it comes to change, you might not want to just go with the flow. You might consider investigating the impacts of change. For example, making positive communications and correlations of “if this, than that” scenarios as related to the change can be helpful to prepare. Preparation for the change will assist with a smooth execution of the change and minimize negative surprises.

Challenge yourself to continue to meet the needs of the vision and mission; accept the change but look for ways to improve it. Resist the easy route of just going with the flow. Make the change yours! Change the change!

Progress is impossible without change, and those who cannot change their minds cannot change anything. – George Bernard Shaw

Kathleen Federici, MEd., is IPI’s director of professional development.