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Writer's pictureJoanna Stone

The Problem with Change

Change is relentless. It never stops. More than that, it accelerates. This ever-increasing pace presents unique challenges for individuals and organisations alike.


Chart that illustrates how rapidly the experience of change is accelerating
Acceleration of Change

In 20 years, the rate of change will be four times what it is today. To put it another way, for someone who is around 40 years old now, by the time they turn 60 in 2040, the pace of paradigm shifts will be four times faster. They will experience a year’s worth of change (by today’s standards) in just three months. For a 10-year-old today, by the time they reach 60, they will witness a year’s worth of change in just 11 days.


Ray Kurzweil, a leading futurist, aptly summarises this phenomenon: “My models show that we are doubling the paradigm-shift rate every decade.” This exponential acceleration underscores the urgency for organisations to adapt and evolve continuously.


The Future of Work


The future of work belongs to organisations that foster continuous learning and development. In an era where change is the only constant, the ability to learn and adapt quickly becomes a crucial differentiator. Organisations that prioritise perpetual learning empower their employees to stay ahead of the curve, equipping them with the skills and knowledge needed to navigate an ever-changing landscape.


Strategies for Success


Combining proactivity with perseverance and prioritising people during times of change are essential strategies for organisations aiming to thrive. Proactivity involves anticipating changes and preparing for them in advance, rather than merely reacting to them. Perseverance is about maintaining steadfast commitment to goals and values, even in the face of challenges and setbacks.


Prioritising people is perhaps the most critical element. As Ronald Heifetz, a renowned expert on leadership, once said, “What people resist is not change per se, but loss.” Understanding this resistance is key to managing change effectively. By focusing on the human aspect of change, organisations can address fears and uncertainties, ensuring that their workforce feels supported and valued throughout transitions.


The Power of Being Prepared


The accelerating rate of change is an undeniable reality that organisations must confront. Those that foster a culture of continuous learning, embrace proactivity and perseverance, and prioritise their people will not only weather the storms of change but also emerge stronger. The future belongs to those who are prepared to adapt and grow in an ever-evolving world.



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