[v. trans-fawrm; n. trans-fawrm] verb (used with object) 1. to change in form, appearance, or structure; metamorphose. 2. to change in condition, nature, or character; convert. 3 to change into another substance; transmute.
If you have ever lived in North Texas in the winter, you know that it can be a very beige and barren place. The grass dies and many trees lose their leaves. And then, like a stealthy fairy, spring appears overnight, transforming the landscape into a bright green, budding, blooming sight. It’s a lovely time of year here.
Spring everywhere is a time of transformation, where the old becomes new and dormancy ignites into growth. Spring can also be a time for personal transformation. I have been contemplating this for myself and my clients. Whether it is transformation with a small “t” or transformation with a capital “T”, many of us are looking for some big or small change in our lives. This desire for change brings to mind Harvard professor John P. Kotter.
Dr. John Kotter is the father of the organizational change model so many of us know today. His 8 - Step Process for Leading Change model has been used in companies the world over. With a personal focus, these eight steps may also help us with our own transformations.
1. Establishing a sense of urgency - Examine your own personal realities. Where is there dissonance with your values or life purpose? Are you experiencing any personal or professional conflicts or stumbling blocks? What is the impetus to transformation?
2. Creating the guiding coalition – Ask one or two people, or a small group of trusted advisors (a friend, mentor, coach, religious leader, etc.), to work with you as a team to support your transformation. Plan the role they will play in action planning, accountability and celebration.
3. Developing a change vision – Visualize the change and determine what actions will get you there. Putting these on paper will make them even more real.
4. Communicating the vision for buy-in – Make a verbal commitment to yourself and then let your trusted advisor(s) know about the change you plan to make.
5. Empowering broad-based action – Remove obstacles, try things out, take risks. Role model the change or, as the old adage goes, “fake it till you make it.”
6. Generating short term wins – Set incremental goals toward accomplishing your vision and celebrate when you accomplish them. Your trusted advisor(s) may help you with accountability here.
7. Never letting up – Internalize your changed behaviors or thought processes. Build on your progress as you go with new actions and ideas.
8. Incorporating changes – Articulate for yourself the impact of the changes you have made on those around you, on your own outlook and on your performance. Recommit to yourself and your trusted advisor(s) that you will continue the transformation
Spring is a time of transformation, summer a season of growth. As we enter this verdant time of the year, may you experience your own transformation and growth – perhaps with a little help from Dr. John Kotter.
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