While many are clamoring to get back to normal, I question whether that’s what they really want. I sure don’t.
Breaking out of an existing pattern is always the hardest part of making a significant change. People like what they are currently doing.
COVID Broke the Pattern
One benefit of the COVID-19 pandemic has been that it forced us to break the pattern. And now that most restrictions have ended, we need to figure out what comes next.
Your company is likely already trying to figure that out. And the work will happen over the next 6-12 months.
Returning to the old normal strikes me as a missed opportunity.
Letting the future develop without planning or intention seems like a pathway to sub-optimal results.
Your Pathway Forward
I’d like to offer three suggestions to create better outcomes:
1) Dream a little. Now’s your chance to go for something big and bold.
2) Involve all your stakeholders. People have opinions and ideas. Use a process that brings them into your decision-making.
3) Have some patience. Big transitions require time and energy to work themselves out.
I can help, especially with the second suggestion. As a neutral facilitator I can gather those opinions in a non-threatening manner. I can also help with proven change management strategies.
Reach out and let’s talk about your hopes for the new normal.