Transformation Starts With I

By Mindy Kantor

Transformation involves planning, designing and realizing a new reality. In organizations, success is determined by reaching a desired goal or target. Often change management programs are planned to help employees navigate, adjust and adapt a new way forward.

Used interchangeably here, change or transformation, albeit slightly different in magnitude and scope by definition have become common place. Change surrounds us, at work, home and in our communities. It is an infinite continuum. Just when we’re feeling settled, something new comes along. At work, we’re asked to welcome new processes, structures or technologies on an ongoing basis. The word “new” can be unnerving or calming, depending on your emotional capital vested in the actual change. Much of the time, we think these changes are outside our control and feel overwhelmed, frustrated or aggravated.

However, let’s posit the notion that the change is not outside your control and that success is determined by
You, hence “Transformation starts with I.” You make the conscious decision to make the change easy or hard.
You determine your openness and willingness to shift your mindset and welcome the change. You are
accountable for infusing your energy and positivity into the new direction. You control your words and actions.
You make the difference. Believe it. Honor it. Be it. And success will be in your reach for any size change or
transformation.

Often companies focus on the big picture of transformations. A vision could be that “every single employee is
customer-obsessed.” Change Management methodology teaches us to look at the current state of the
organization compared to the desired state and map out actions or programs that help employees become
customer-obsessed. Communication plans are crafted with key messages to deploy throughout the organization.

Using this example, transformation can start with you. Ask yourself, “How will I demonstrate that I’m customer obsessed? What will I start doing differently?” If you manage employees, are they able to skip an internal meeting with no consequences to help out a customer? Have you provided them resources that empower them
to make choices on the spot? What will you say and do that shows your authentic, customer-obsessed self?
Decide and live it daily through your words and actions. Similar to a child mirroring their parents’ speech and
movements, your peers and managers are watching you. Be the leader, set the example.

All transformations start with the Individual and our greatest tool is our capacity to choose our mindset and
actions forward. You are empowered. Once you accept that you are in control and that you are ready, willing
and able to adopt the required change, you can guide others through the journey, celebrating milestones. As
Mahatma Gandhi said, “be the change you want to see in the world.” Transformation starts with I.

Mindy Kantor is a Strategic Organizational Communication and Change Catalyst