I’m reading a book called Thank You for Being Late by Thomas Friedman.
The book is rich with insights into the speed of change in today’s world. He notes that when changes were introduced back in the days of our parents and grandparents, it could take generations before the changes were incorporated into everyday life.
Now, changes can be introduced and absorbed in four or five years.
Examples abound. The smartphone is just ten years old, and we’re already on a fourth-generation network designed around increased data needs. It has moved from a fad to most people having them in their pockets at all times.
The smartphone changed how we listen to music, buy products, do our banking, take in our entertainment, and spend our time–all since 2007.
Friedman says that with the way things move so quickly, we have two choices: Be change-friendly and oriented, or spend the rest of your life off-balance and reactive as each wave of change comes your way.
He explains the concept of “dynamic stability.” It’s like riding a bike. You can’t balance a bike easily if you aren’t moving on it.
He suggests we move into change the same way. Do it while in motion and maintain your balance while moving. Otherwise, change as you pedal. Learn to do it as you are moving. With speed and agility.
As I read about “dynamic stability,” it resonated. We may wish change would slow down, but it isn’t going to.
We may want to ease into things, but that’s not how it works. Easing into things may cause you to miss them altogether.
Does your pace of change need an adjustment? “Dynamic stability” might be the thought process you need.
Resisting change seems to be a flawed mindset. Moving ahead and remaining alert to change is the way to survive.
