You know what I would guess is one of the scariest things in the world to people, aside from public speaking? Change. A lot of folks out there are terrified of it. Do you know why? Because it means stepping outside of the safe little bubble we’ve created for ourselves. It means moving away from the predictable day that we can coast through on auto-pilot. It means our minds have to be actively engaged, adjusting to new information, and solving new problems. There’s fear involved because we don’t know what to expect. And we get irritated because it means more work for us.

 But I think a life without change is far scarier.

 I had an enlightening conversation with a friend of mine who works in a field very hesitant to change. Servant Leadership is nowhere to be found in his office. Every soul there is frustrated. They walk into work with furrowed brows—no smiles to be seen. His leader no longer greets her people. No longer says “Good morning”. There is no forum of discussion for work-related issues. Communication problems just continue on without resolution and so resentment builds and builds. Conversation of any kind is hushed. There is no positive reinforcement. Only a list of each employee’s faults is spoken. Suggestions are unwelcome. Change is unwelcome. Because change is scary and it’s hard work. The environment is toxic.

 You are the enlightened few! You are on board with Servant Leadership. Please don’t fear it. Don’t hesitate to adopt any part of it. I know at first it seems scary to step out there and try something new. But it’s far scarier what happens when you fear change and do nothing.

Coach Joe