In Part 1, I shared my experiences regarding change and transition. If you missed it, you can read it HERE.
In 2011 we experienced many exciting changes at Mars Hill Baptist Church. Regardless of how exciting the vision of the building was, we know now that in the process, we left some people behind.
In Part 1, we learned how BUILDINGS HOUSE MEMORIES – DON’T ERASE THEIR SIGNIFICANCE.
Here’s SECOND humbling lesson learned:
CHANGE HAPPENS QUICKLY BUT TRANSITION OFTEN FOLLOWS MORE SLOWLY
We also assumed that most people would be able to accept the changes as easily as we did. We were only looking ahead of us. We were not looking around. What we did not realize is that while change happens instantly, transition follows more slowly.
Different personalities adapt to change in different ways, and in their own time. For most people, change is difficult. For others change is downright scary. As leaders, we should have invested additional time in building individual relationships. This may help people understand and accept the transition.
To go back to the lake fishing example mentioned in Part 1: If the leaders had stayed on the shore instead of going ahead in their boat, they could have helped and encouraged those that were uncertain about going fishing. Sometimes there is more serving involved in leadership than leading.
What are your thoughts regarding change and transition?
Which do you find most difficult?
