Tag Archives: flexibility

10 Tips for Embracing Change

9 Apr

How are you adjusting to the mandatory timeline on your Facebook page? I found it interesting to see the various ways that people handled it. There were two distinct extremes – those who jumped right in and those who resisted until the very end. Most of us fell somewhere in the middle. Let’s face it, we get in our comfort zone and like for things to stay the same. Here are 10 tips for embracing change (of any kind) since it’s clear that changes will continue to accelerate in the future especially in the technical arena.

Look for possibilities

1. Stay open

How do you respond when you facing change? Do you retreat and close yourself off or do you stay open and ready to move forward.

2.  Research reasons for change

This can be a tough one because often we are not given the reasons for a change. When possible, ask the question. When leading through change keep in mind that research shows that letting others know the “because” of why something is happening increases their cooperation from 60 – 94 percent. (Ellen Langer)

3. Resist complaining about the negatives

Now this is really a tough one. We are always looking for ways to connect. With how many strangers have you talked about the awful weather? Avoid connecting on the negative implications of the change because that starts a pessimistic, hopeless way of thinking.

4. Explore benefits of change

Open your mind to the possibilities that may be hiding behind the inconvenience of change. If nothing else, you are remaining flexible as you find out more details about the change.

5. Find workarounds for the negatives

Creativity flows from solving problems. Take a step back and look at the negatives. See if others have come up with a workaround and if there isn’t, figure one out.

6. Share the benefits with others

Begin to share the benefits of the change. Be known for your positive approach to changes and not the outspoken critic of anything new.

7. Make the change before you have to

Stop procrastinating and dreading the change. Go ahead with it. It’s never as bad as you think it will be.

8. Show someone else how to do it

Once you’ve made the change, look around to see if there is someone who was where you were just a few days ago. Encourage them to make the change or, better yet, show them how easy it is to do.

9.  Adjust to the new ‘normal’

In the first few days, the change will seem unfamiliar and awkward. Resist the urge to complain. It won’t take you long to get used to it.

10.  Look for business opportunities

There are hidden opportunities that those who are resistant to change will ignore. What changes are happening in your industry or world? If  you follow these steps you will quickly become an expert and authority. It’s not that hard, yet you will need to get out of your comfort zone. That’s what successful entrepreneurs do well.

What changes are you going to embrace this week?

Karen Sebastian is a serial entrepreneur who wants to help you succeed in your business. Please email her at hopepreneurs@gmail.com if you would like to book her as a speaker or want one-on-one coaching. Subscribe to this blog for more inspiration on how to become a HOPEpreneur.

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Ten Ways to Increase Enthusiasm

12 Feb
Successful entrepreneurs maintain a high level of enthusiasm and energy. When you meet people and share your passion you will begin to see doors open in unexpected ways. Here are ten ways to increase your level of enthusiasm:Enthusiasm-Regain energy by someone else succeed.
  1. Get moving because activity will get the creative juices going.
  2. Revisit your convictions so that you can get back on the path to fulfilling your vision.
  3. Regain energy by helping someone else succeed.
  4. Start talking to someone about why you love what you do or you want to start your business.
  5. Laugh – really laugh until your sides shake and you can’t breathe
  6. Set your doubts aside and move forward anyway.
  7. Get involved in finding creative solutions to problems that arise.
  8. Get up early enough to enjoy a sunrise and start the day with fresh exhiliration.
  9. Write about three things that bring you joy.
  10. Relish the warmth of spending time with family and friends because they are who really matters.

Which is your favorite? Do you have other ways to increase your enthusiasm?

Karen Sebastian is a serial entrepreneur who wants to help you succeed in your business. Please email her at hopepreneurs@gmail.com if you would like to receive one-on-one coaching. Subscribe to this blog for more inspiration on how to become a HOPEpreneur.

Do I have to stop networking during the holiday season?

8 Dec

We are in the time of the year when it’s tempting to give ourselves the excuse that we are all too busy to keep networking. Whatever you do, don’t stop networking. Once you lose momentum it can be harder to get started again after the first of the year. Instead, shift your focus a little. It’s actually a perfect time to check out some new networking circles, make a few extra calls and set up some appointments.

Expand your networking circle by attending seasonal events.

Many times there are groups that will extend an invitation to non-members. Go and test the waters. Be prepared to meet some brand new contacts and follow up with them.

Take the lead to set up a definite time to meet.

Check through your contacts to see if there are any open loops. Take the initiative to email or call that person to set up a definite time to meet. The whole approach of “Let’s get together soon” usually doesn’t work because people are so busy.

Flex your meeting times.

Expect a positive result because often people take a more relaxed approach toward work during this season. You may have to be more flexible and plan to meet around 4:30 pm instead of having lunch.

Have fun.

Enjoy your opportunities to meet others. Be ready to give your input and lend a helping hand. It will come back to you in surprising ways.

Karen Sebastian is a serial entrepreneur who wants to help you succeed in your business. Subscribe to this blog for more inspiration on how to become a HOPEpreneur.

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