The Dangers of “Change Fatigue” ….and what to do about it!

A major danger that started to emerge late 2011 for individuals, businesses and organisations, is what I call “change fatigue.”

Change fatigue happens when there is an unprecedented weight of change and volatility. Combine this with the uncertainty over the implications of that change and one would be sympathetic to those who say “Ok that’s enough.”

Basically this is occurring because of what could be described as the overwhelming rate of change across the board – global, technological and societal. Ie the rise of China and India and the increase in outsourcing in both small businesses and large; the use of the internet and smart phones; networking like Facebook and LinkedIn.

It is also a result of anticipation of the not yet realised changes; for example carbon pricing that will start on 1 July 2012, and its impact on prices.

Some of the hype over change is real; much of it is media driven. Whatever the drivers of the change, there is a distinct feeling of frustration coming through from people saying “enough!!!!”

I have heard some self help experts say they don’t read the papers or follow television so they are not influenced by the negativity of the change and the like. This would be akin to denial; the classic “ostrich” stick the head in the sand approach and in my view, is just plain dumb. Switching off does not solve any problems; what it does is actually put you behind the pack.

But be wary. What we hear reported is they don’t read the newspapers because it is simplistic. The reality is they most often get their news from differing sources than the most Australians. Generally their news and information comes from media sources that don’t need to sell newspapers and therefore can afford a more balanced outlook.

The Phil’s-osophy

How should we deal with change fatigue?

Well to start with:

1. Accept change is here to stay! The human race can not progress if it does not change.


2. Daily exercise - you’ve read me going on about this and I can’t stress this enough. Even going for a brisk walk for 30 minutes clears the head and helps any anxiety you may be feeling, to subside.


3. Ongoing personal and professional development /skill improvement. Refer point 1. Sometimes you’ll need to factor in a radical change to your skillset but most often a simple upgrade is all that is required.


4. Connecting with people – networking, conversations, coffees etc. This connection is particularly critical in 2012 especially for career and business growth.

So before believing the worst, how about taking a deep breath, taking a step back and asking “what are the implications for me?”. Once you are able to rationally identify those implications, you will be able to determine the course of action to take advantage of them. And if you need help, a career coach, who has a purely objective view, can help get you over the hurdle.

To your success in 2012

Phil

www.philipwagner.com.au