Change is inevitable, there is no denying this fact. But do you know there are two types of changes? Understanding this can help you better prepare for the change and often yield positive results.
#1 Change in reality
This is the change most of us are aware of.
Change in reality is the physical change. It is something we have little or no control of. Our natural reaction is to resist but ultimately adapt ourselves for the change.
It is often continuous and gradual in nature.
For example, assume there is a change in your office location. This is the real change. It doesn’t take place immediately but over a period of time and in several steps. You, being part of the system, is impacted by the change and sail along with it.
#2 Change in perception
This is the change we often overlook.
Change is perception is the mental change. It refers to a change in our attitude about an impending or existing change.
Unlike the change in reality, this change is an immediate shift in perception. It is discontinuous and happen in an instant when your mental model changes.
For example, you have a colleague at work who you dislike. You don’t know anything about him or her, but for some reason hostile to the person. One day you come to know about the high qualities of that person and his friendliness towards you. You have a sudden change of perception and it happens in an instant.
Why it is important for Managers?
Understanding these two types of change is important for managers because:
- People are often repulsive to changes in reality
- They often feel forced to change
- Instead, the managers should first focus on perception change
- Once this is accomplished, the change in reality will be a natural process
A change in perception followed by the real change is desirable and a win-win scenario for everyone involved.
Based on What Managers can learn from Philosophy on Coursera. It is an excellent course, look out for the next session and make sure to enroll!
Image credit: Flickr Creative Commons by Arthur John Picton
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