Why Embracing Change is the Key to Success

Introduction:

The other day, I was sitting at lunch with my grandkids when they threw out a phrase I’d never heard before. My son, Daniel, who’s in his 40s, looked at them confused and asked, “What in the world does that mean?” They laughed and explained it was the latest slang.

It took me back to years ago when I told my kids to grab my “thongs” from the camper—back then, they were just sandals, but today that word has an entirely different meaning. “Dad,” they said, “don’t call them that—it’s flip-flops!”

It reminded me how much things change. Language, technology, fashion—nothing stays the same. As leaders, especially in the marketplace, we must learn how to navigate this ever-changing world. If we don’t, we risk becoming irrelevant, outdated, or stuck.

In this week’s Leadership Lifter, I shared my thoughts on dealing with change because, let’s face it: change is constant, and growth depends on how well we embrace it.

Why We Resist Change

Most people resist change, even when it’s good for them. Why? I believe there are five main reasons:

1. Pride
   We don’t want to admit we need to change. Pride shows up as denial, convincing us that the way we’ve always done things is good enough.

2. Fear
   Change introduces the unknown, and that can be scary. Fear often paralyzes us, keeping us stuck where we are.

3. Rebellion
   People like comfort. Change disrupts the status quo, and our natural response is to push back.

4. Laziness
   Let’s be honest—change takes effort. Whether it’s hitting the gym, growing spiritually, or improving a skill, change requires discipline and hard work.

5. Ignorance
   Sometimes, people don’t change because they don’t know how. That’s why resources and mentorship are so critical to personal and professional growth.

These five barriers can stop anyone from moving forward. As leaders, we must confront them head-on.

The Role of Change in Growth

Here’s a truth that I’ve learned: You can’t grow without change. Growth and change go hand in hand. Whether it’s improving yourself, your team, or your organization, you must embrace new ways of doing things to move forward.

I’ve pastored a church here in St. Louis, Missouri, for 40 years. When we started, I wore three-piece suits with a red carnation every Sunday. Today, I’ve traded that look for something simpler. Why? Because every new season requires new systems. We’ve changed our clothes, music, buildings, and even how we broadcast our message. The wrapper has changed, but the message hasn’t—it’s still the same truth I’ve preached for 40 years.

Steps for Embracing Change

So how do we, as leaders, embrace change in a way that leads to growth and success? Here are a few key steps I shared:

1. Recognize That Change is Constant
   Everything around us is evolving. If we don’t adapt, we risk becoming irrelevant. Whether it’s technology, communication, or strategy, leaders must stay ahead of the curve.

2. Understand That You Can’t Grow Without Change
   Every step forward requires some level of transformation. As I said, “You can’t move forward into the future without change.”

3. Embrace Change Instead of Resisting It
   Not all change is bad. Even when it’s uncomfortable—like learning to use an iPad or smartphone—it can lead to something better.

4. Focus on What Doesn’t Change
   While everything around us shifts, some things remain constant. For me, it’s the Word of God. Scripture provides stability and guidance in the middle of life’s transitions.

5. Learn to Navigate Through Transitions
   Life is full of changes—big and small. Learning to adapt and adjust is a skill that will carry you through any season, whether it’s personal, professional, or spiritual.

6. See Change as Your Friend
   Change is not the enemy. When we embrace it, we allow ourselves to grow, innovate, and move closer to our God-given purpose.

7. Trust That God Has Change Scheduled in Your Life
   God often uses change to shape us into the best version of ourselves. As I shared in the video, many people only change when they hurt enough to want it or desire something bad enough. But change is a vital part of growth—it’s how we mature, develop, and become the leaders God has called us to be.

The Power of God in Change

One of the most important lessons I’ve learned is this: God never changes. The Bible says, “I am the Lord; I change not”(Malachi 3:6). While everything around us may shift, God’s Word remains constant. It’s our anchor through the storms of life and the transitions we face.

2 Corinthians 3:18 reminds us that we are transformed from glory to glory by the Spirit of the Lord. Change is part of God’s process for making us more like Him. It’s not always easy, but it’s always worth it.

Conclusion: Moving forward with confidence

Here’s the bottom line: Change isn’t optional—it’s essential. As leaders, we need to stop seeing change as something to fear and start seeing it as an opportunity. Whether it’s updating your skills, adopting new systems, or adjusting to a new season, change is the pathway to growth.

Remember, “God is for you!” He has change scheduled in your life because He’s preparing you for something greater. Let’s embrace it, navigate it, and move forward into the future He has planned for us.