In this section, we will be looking at our own relationship with change: the changes that we can initiate ourselves, as well as the external changes that we have to react and respond to. We’ll also explore the stages of transition within a change, and look at models and frameworks that may be of interest to us when we contemplate doing something different. Finally, we will reflect on all the work we have done so far from other sections of SD – and see how close we are to being where we want to be.

Before we start this section in earnest, let’s explore your attitudes to change.

Do you embrace change, or resist it? Do you see change as something that happens to you, or something that you initiate yourself?

It may also be useful to catch up on some definitions in this field of enquiry.

The definition of process is: steps taken to achieve a particular goal. Or a series of actions, or a method of producing something.

Words around process include: task, undertaking, activity, exercise.

There are quite a few definitions of change:
• to make or become different
• to use something else instead
• an act or process after which something is different
• to form a new opinion
• to make a new decision
• to give up or get rid of something
• to exchange something for something else

There are also many words that are linked to change, such as: modify, vary, transform, revolution, amend, fluid.

And the opposite of change? Here we find words such as: same, stuck, still, constant, unbending, firm, rigid.

The word transition is the movement or the passage of time during a process of change. Or changing from one state to another state. Or the undertaking of a series of actions.

Words that accompany transition are: adjustment, adaptation, metamorphosis, changeover, mutation, progression, development, switch.

A paradox is a statement/idea that may seem strange, false or contradictory to begin with, yet proves correct when explored in more detail. A classic example of a paradox is the phrase less is more.

One idea put forward about making changes in our lives is that often it comes down to wanting to change rather than trying to change.

Take this quote for example:

To explain further, let us suppose that you want to get from A to B (whatever A and B may be).

If you try to get to B, or force yourself to get to B, and if getting to B is all you care about, you may never get there. Because you are at A, and until you recognise what A is and are aware of A, there can be no B for you to get to.

Alternatively, if you are at A and you are pretending that you are really at B, you will never get to B until you stop pretending that you are at anything other than A.