Ricci M. Victorio

Redefining the paradigm of change
October 17, 2008

A paradigm is a problem solving system that defines our beliefs. It establishes a set of rules or boundaries that offers models for problem solving. It shapes the box we use to define our understanding of how things function. We use paradigms in all aspects of our world – to define our understanding of the physical, spiritual and scientific world. They dramatically influence our perceptions by fulfilling what we expect to believe.

My previous two blogs this week, The Times, They are A-Changin' and In order to win the game you must understand your opponent, I spent time identifying disempowering paradigms or beliefs that will not help you do more than survive the tidal wave of change we are currently experiencing. Since I espouse the paradigm that there is no such thing as “status quo” and that life is all about continuous change, here are my empowering beliefs about change that can help you successfully ride the wave, rather than drown, in our current business environment:

In order to change a paradigm, you need to be:

• Courageous
• Open-minded
• Flexible & adaptive
• Overcome fear
• Believe there is no such thing as failure
• Have a willingness to break or challenge old rules
• Have faith – a willingness to suspend your disbelief, as there is currently no proof that your ideas will work
• Believe those who are not willing to change should get out of the way of those who are doing it

If you see these qualities within yourself and your organization, then I challenge you to post these five empowering beliefs about change throughout your workplace. No matter if you believe them or not, keep them in front of you for at least 30 days before you make a decision as to whether or not they work for you.

1. Change equals opportunity and growth.
2. When things change, I must change, be flexible and adaptable.
3. There is a way to use this change to my/our advantage. I will use this problem to grow and learn.
4. I’m going to enjoy the journey through my rapidly changing world. It’s not achieving my goals that are important, but enjoying my journey, the process of growing and learning and helping others.
5. There is a lesson to be learned from every change in my life. There is no such thing as failure. Past “bad” experiences are sometimes the best dynamic learning and turning points.

You can take this time of flux and change, turn the experience around to your advantage and come out in an entirely new place – way beyond where you would have originally imagined. Remember the time-tested adage from the philosopher Goethe:

"What we can do and want to do is projected in our imagination, quite outside ourselves, and into the future. We are attracted to what is already ours in secret. Thus passionate anticipation transforms what is indeed possible into dreamt-for reality. What ever you can do or dream, you can begin it. Boldness has genius, power and magic in it. Begin it now.”

Posted by Ricci M. Victorio on October 17, 2008 | Comments (0)