The paradox of Change Management: A personal experience of tradition and innovation

Once a “wise person” said the only constant is change! As I review my own life through the lens of change management, it feels like a delicate balance between the promising mystery of the future and the solid wisdom of the past; a "dance" I see many organizations performing right now.

A few years ago, I joined a non-profit organization with a legacy stretching back more than two decades. It had been founded by the first generation of graduates from one of the universities I have studied at. Despite the large number of talented graduates each year, the organization’s membership barely reached 300 even at its peak. I couldn’t understand why it couldn’t use all the potential. Confused but eager to make a difference, I decided to get involved!

What I found was an organization deeply rooted in tradition, knitted by the decisions, processes, and emotions of those who had been there since the very beginning. Their passion for preserving the past was so deep that it felt like a parent’s protective instinct around a child. It was admirable in a way, but to me and many other younger graduates, it was also holding the organization back.

That, at the time, reminded me of something Elon Musk once said: "The truth is, most people don't change their minds. They just die. So if they don't die, we will be stuck with old ideas and society wouldn't advance.”

Despite his forward-thinking and futuristic reputation, Elon Musk has expressed concerns about longevity. In his, admittedly blunt, comment, he suggests that as people age, they can become more resistant to new ideas; particularly in organizations or societies where leadership has remained unchanged for a long time. That can restrain the infusion of fresh perspectives. On the other hand, newer members, much like in that particular non-profit organization, tend to bring fresh trends and ideas. They are more accustomed to the evolving external world and are enthusiastic about introducing change. However, their enthusiasm can sometimes lack the deeper understanding that experience can bring. It’s a dynamic I see reflected in Elon’s ventures too.

While he acknowledges the value of experience, he never shies away from bold, radical innovation; often challenging established norms and flipping entire industries upside down. I know some may find some of his decisions rather too radical and maybe even close to “insanity”, but that can be debated in another instance!

The delicate dance of “Ice and Fire”: Merging Past and Future

So, how should we find the balance between a drive for innovation and a rich heritage of tradition? It’s not an easy task, I admit it! But maybe a few principles can make this “dance” a little smoother:

• Embrace open dialogue: My experience has shown me the transformative power of creating a space where all opinions are valued. It’s crucial to develop a culture where ideas, regardless of their source or how new they are, are evaluated on their merits.

• Commit to continuous learning: In any organization, promoting a culture of continuous learning is essential. Regular training sessions, workshops, and opportunities for professional development ensure that all members, new and experienced, stay informed about the latest trends and innovations both in the organization’s domain and also in the world. This not only equips teams with the skills they need to adapt but also encourages a mindset of growth and improvement.

• Mentorship matters: There’s something invaluable about a mutual relationship where newer members learn from the experienced ones; and in turn, the veterans get exposed to fresh perspectives. This exchange of knowledge and energy keeps an organization dynamic and growing.

• Feedback fuels growth: Creating open channels for feedback allows an organization to unearth hidden ideas and solutions. You never know! Sometimes, the most revolutionary concepts come from those on the edges of the usual decision-making processes.

• Celebrate innovation: Each time an organization evolves, it’s a sign of its adaptability. Celebrating these milestones reinforces a culture of progress and encourages further growth.

Embrace the Paradox

Looking back on my journey and the wisdom of visionaries like Elon Musk, one thing becomes clear: Change Management isn’t about choosing between the old and the new. It’s about bringing them together. It’s ensuring that the future is embraced with excitement, while the past is honored and respected.

With one eye on innovation and another on tradition, we can ensure not just survival, but success as we dive the uncharted waters of the 21st century with SCUBA gears from 20th century! 😉