Achieving Continuous Improvement
We’ve spent more than the past year responding to things outside of our control. Everyone has experienced huge change, a lot of it while in crisis mode. Upon reflection, some of the changes were inevitable. If we think about digital transformation and flexible working conditions, these were simply accelerated by Covid.
Now that the worst has (hopefully) passed, it’s important to pause and reflect on the changes you’ve made to your business. The process of change itself is a powerful tool we can use far beyond the Covid crisis, to improve our planning and resilience. It’s likely there are other opportunities (or changes) that exist to help you future proof your business.
Consciously recognising the process required to change can vastly improve your outcomes.
The Five A’s of Change breaks it down simply:
1. Awareness.
First, we need awareness of what needs to change. What changes should you prioritise now you have some control back? How can you reflect these in your business plan?
2. Acceptance.
We have to accept that change is a continuous process. It’s likely you’re craving some stability; however progress requires change. Change is a lot more positive when it’s a result of proactive (not reactive) thinking.
3. Action.
Once we have a plan, we must actually implement it. Now that you’re out of crisis mode, you can take it one step at a time; the momentum for change will grow. Without action, planning is pointless.
4. Accountability.
Having someone independent to hold us to account is typically a fool proof way to ensure we act. A bit like going to the gym before work… we’re more likely to show up if we’ve committed to a friend or paid for a personal trainer.
5. Acknowledgement.
Acknowledge the change you’ve been through and the way you responded to Covid-19 and lockdown. We all did the best we could with the knowledge we had at the time. Celebrate the success of taking action and forcing change; it helps reinforce good behaviour.
This powerful model is simple and effective. Consider the things in your business that you would like to change and what stage in this process you’re at. What is your next step? Whatever your current situation, empower yourself and make a commitment to real change.
“The secret of change is to focus all of your energy not on fighting the old, but on building the new.” – Socrates
