Two maxims set the stage for this topic of change:
- “If it is not broken, don’t fix it.”
- “To keep doing the same thing in the same way and expect a different result is the very definition of insanity.”
We read and hear about change all the time. In the manufactured housing industry we are told or personally express the need to change and adapt. But what does it mean to change, and what does it take to change and effect change personally, organizationally or in an industry?
First of all, change is constant. We measure time by measuring change:
- the change of the position of the earth in relation to the sun for the seasons,
- the earth’s rotation in 24 hours to measure hours and minutes,
- we grow older minute by minute, day by day…
- so change is something that simply is constant. Only those in denial, the irrational or the simpleton don’t accept or understand change.
But effecting change, adapting to change, that is a different question! What is that process for change? When should we make changes?
The two quotes at the top point the answer in very clear and direct terms. If what you are doing works, don’t change it. But make sure that it truly is working, you have to be objective. You can’t make excuses. So are you doing better than 1 year, 2 years, 3 years ago? If not, then you need to consider and implement some positive change! If all is well and growing already, then perhaps you should stay your course or consider only those changes that would further enhance your performance.
Let’s presume that all is NOT well. If you business is suffering from ups and downs, and more downs lately than ups, there is a need to change. Period.
The process for change is as simple as acceptance. Be open to the change, and then take the first step…
The moment we accept and are open to a change, we can begin the process of adapting and growing with it.
- The change may be as simple as how we comb or brush our hair (if we have any…),
- to how we see our role in our household, work place, industry and society.
- change may be how we deal with Industry image issues,
- how we face financing challenges,
- how we work with public officials or
- how we relate our co-workers, customers, suppliers or to others.
For some, change comes when a two by four strikes us on the side of the head. Meaning, change comes during a crisis. In fact; for people and organizations, this is often how change occurs, when it is forced upon us.
What causes you pain? What makes you irritable during the day or sleepless at night?
For those who are wise, change comes as a result of analysis, planning and implementation. Change should ideally be a thoughtful process.
Check these articles out. Be open to change, think them through, be ready to do something new when new is needed.
Hire a pro if you need to, read a book or article to ‘do it yourself’ if you can. But do what it takes, don’t become a statistic that wouldn’t change and failed as a result.
Don’t say ‘no’ to some change because it is different, or because ‘you have always done it this other way.’ As an industry and for many companies in it, it is OBVIOUS that change is needed.
If that ‘tried and true’ way is producing a great result for you and your company fine. But the truth is we fall into patterns and habits. We get stuck in our ruts, which Zig Ziglar defined a rut years ago as an ‘open ended grave.’
If what you once did no longer serves the purpose – it no longer moves you ahead – then think: what change do we need to make?
Then reach out to the resources that will help you make that change effectively. You can start with the resources found by the hundreds right here at MHMSM.com, you can turn to your state or national association, turn to a colleague or to a trusted friend.
Be open to change. The future, your future, starts one moment from now. When it is time to change? The sooner you begin, the faster you will get to where you need and want to go. # #
L. A. ‘Tony’ Kovach
Publisher, MH Marketing, author and the Masthead blogger at
Manufactured Home Marketing Sales Management online industry trade journal at:
MHMarketingSalesManagement.com or MHMSM.com
tony@mhmsm.com
847-730-3692
