To Resist Change is to be Human
Why We Fight Change (And How to Actually Embrace It)
Let's be honest: Change is hard, like, really hard. Whether it’s a new corporate strategy, a shift in team dynamics, or even just a different way of doing your morning routine, our default setting often seems to be resistance. As leaders, we see this play out all the time in our teams and perhaps even in ourselves. But why? Why do we humans, with all our incredible capacity for innovation and growth, dig in our heels when the landscape shifts?
You might be surprised to find some pretty profound answers nestled in some ancient wisdom, specifically, the Bible. While it's not a business textbook, it offers incredible insights into the human condition, including our often-complicated relationship with change.
The Garden of Eden: Our Craving for Control and Predictability
Think about the very beginning: the Garden of Eden. Adam and Eve lived in a perfect, predictable environment. Everything was provided, and there was one simple rule. What happened when that rule was broken? Chaos, disruption, and a complete upheaval of their world.
This story, at its core, speaks to our deep-seated desire for control and predictability. We thrive on routines, on knowing what to expect. When things change, it feels like we’re losing control, and that can be genuinely unsettling. We like our little "gardens" where we feel safe and know the rules.
In Genesis 11, we see the Tower of Babel. Humanity, united in one language, decided to build a tower to reach the heavens, essentially trying to create their own secure, unified future. God, however, disrupted this plan by confusing their languages. Again, a force outside their control brought about massive change, forcing them to scatter and adapt.
As leaders, we need to recognize that when we introduce change, we're often challenging people's sense of control. They've built their own internal "towers" of how things should be, and a new direction can feel like a direct assault on that stability.
The Wilderness Wanderings: The Fear of the Unknown
Fast forward to the Israelites leaving Egypt. They were slaves, yes, but they had a routine, however harsh. When Moses led them out, they were headed to the Promised Land, a place of freedom and abundance. Sounds great, right? Yet, time and again, they grumbled, complained, and even longed for the "good old days" in Egypt. Why? Because the wilderness was unknown, unpredictable, and often uncomfortable.
This is the fear of the unknown rearing its head. We’d rather stick with the familiar, even if it’s suboptimal, than step into a new, uncertain territory. The Israelites faced hunger, thirst, and hostile neighbors. Change, for them, meant vulnerability.
For our teams, embracing change often means stepping into a personal "wilderness." They might have to learn new skills, adopt different processes, or interact with new people, which can be intimidating. As leaders, it's crucial to acknowledge this fear rather than dismiss it.
So, How Do We Become More Adaptable?
If our human wiring leans towards resistance, how can we, and our teams, become more adaptable? The Bible offers some powerful principles:
Embrace a "New Creation" Mindset (2 Corinthians 5:17): Paul writes, "Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!" This isn't just a spiritual rebirth; it’s a mindset. We need to help ourselves and our teams see change not as an ending, but as an opportunity for something new and potentially better. It's about letting go of what once was and embracing what can be. As leaders, paint a compelling vision of the "new creation" that change can bring.
Trust in the Shepherd (Psalm 23:1-4): "The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want... Even though I walk through the darkest valley, I will fear no evil, for you are with me." When facing the unknown, a deep trust in a guiding presence can be incredibly calming. For leaders, this means cultivating trust within our teams. When people trust our leadership, when they believe we have their best interests at heart, they are far more likely to follow us into uncomfortable, changing territories. Be transparent, be consistent, and be present.
Be Transformed (Romans 12:1-2): "Therefore, I urge you, brothers and sisters, in view of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God – this is your true and proper worship. Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind." This verse is a powerhouse for adaptability. It’s about willingly letting go of old patterns ("do not conform to the pattern of this world") and actively seeking transformation ("be transformed by the renewing of your mind"). As leaders, we need to model this. Are we willing to sacrifice our own comfortable routines and ways of thinking for the greater good of the team and the organization? Are we actively renewing our own minds to embrace new ideas?
Practice Gratitude and Resilience (1 Thessalonians 5:18): "Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus." This isn't about being Pollyanna-ish, but finding something to be grateful for even amidst difficulty. When change brings challenges, can we find the lessons learned, the new opportunities, or even just the resilience we've developed? This mindset helps us bounce back faster and face future changes with more fortitude. Encourage your team to reflect on past challenges they’ve overcome and to identify the strengths they gained.
The Leader's Role: Guiding Through the Wilderness
As leaders, we're called to be like Moses, guiding our people through the wilderness of change. That means:
Communicating the "Why": Just as God had a plan for the Israelites, we must clearly articulate the change's purpose.
Providing Support and Resources: The Israelites had manna and water. What resources, training, and support can we offer our teams to navigate the new landscape?
Acknowledging the Discomfort: Don't pretend change is easy. Validate the feelings of frustration, fear, or sadness.
Celebrating Small Victories: Every step taken in the right direction, every adaptation made, is a cause for encouragement.
Change is a constant in life, a fundamental part of our human experience. Our instincts might scream "STOP!" But by understanding our inherent resistance and leaning into biblical principles of trust, transformation, and gratefulness, we can survive change and truly thrive in it. As leaders, that’s a powerful gift we can offer ourselves and our teams.