One thing is certain: change is inevitable. I love this quote (source unknown): “If you don’t like change, you’ll like irrelevance even less.”

That says it all. Change is here to stay. As leaders, we must not only accept change but embrace it. Let’s see it for what it is: an opportunity to move forward, to learn, and to grow.

Change reveals things—about ourselves, our team, our culture, and our systems.

Recently, in a coaching session, a client was confronted with an unexpected and significant shift in her team’s direction. It was uncharted territory, and the change created uncertainty and chatter among her team. She admitted she lacked confidence in her ability to unite the group and lead them forward.

Together, we worked through a simple checklist I often use in times of change. It’s a series of questions designed to assess readiness:

  • Does this change serve a long-term need or benefit?
  • Is the timing right?
  • Do I have the right people in place to execute it?
  • Do we have the resources we need?
  • Am I personally committed to the why behind the change? Do my key people support it?

She rated each question on a scale of 1 (not at all) to 5 (absolutely), scoring 23 out of 25. That clarity boosted her confidence.

Five weeks later, the transition is well underway—and going smoothly.

I share this story to remind you of how vital leadership is in navigating change. My client and her team are now stronger, more aligned, and growing—all because they embraced change.

EMBRACE IT.