Redefine “Normal”

It’s not new news that there really is no overall “normal.”  We use all kinds of other terms to attempt to clarify what in specific situations we are defining as “normal”, such as typical, representative, standard, average, etc.  However, there has generally been a “normal” for each of us that although it changes over time, changes in some evolutionary fashion.  Our change may or may not be related to changes around us.

However, given the seismic shifts across the world in the last few years impacting the daily lives of MANY people, what used to be “normal” will never be normal again.  In some cases we are choosing this new normal, in others it is thrust upon us.  Also, frequently a change to our norm in one area of our lives has a domino effect across our lives, and sometimes the lives of others.  Whether positive, negative or neutral, the key is that “things” are not what used to be.  That is simply reality.

Quoting, some very wise people,

We are responsible for actions performed in response to circumstances for which we are not responsible.  Allan Massie (Scottish Journalist & Novelist)

Life is lumpy.  And a lump in the oatmeal, a lump in the throat and a lump in the breast are not the same lump.  One should learn the difference.  Robert Fulgham

From my perspective, there are three major outcomes of change on this scale:

1. We figure out what we can control and control it.  We figure out what we can’t control and accept it, adapt to it and do whatever is necessary to limit its impact on our lives. 
2. We determine what positive outcomes these changes bring – perhaps they are simply wonderful changes.  Or, perhaps we find and make the most of the silver linings.
3. We see how changes have impacted others, and where we can, we provide whatever assistance we can – as they change, accept, adapt and redefine their lives.

In each case, we are redefining normal – and making the most of it.  It is important to understand just how broad the scale of some of these changes can be.  It is critical that we work TOGETHER in ways we’ve never worked together before.

What worked before may not work again.  These are different times.  We must be open to trying new things – to redefine normal – and become comfortable with continuous change.  I don’t think this is a time to sit tight, hunker down, and wait it out.  This isn’t some passing thunderstorm or tornado.  The changes taking place today have far-reaching consequences.  It is important that we all do as much as we can to contribute to positive change, we ensure our voices are heard when decisions are being made regarding future change, and we know when to accept change that is simply not in an arena we control. 

Those who understand the benefits of change and use this time of great change to prepare themselves and their businesses for a new future will be those that reap the greatest rewards.  There may be a time when change is not happening in such a broad scale in so many areas.  However, change is here to stay.  Tremendous innovation is often an outcome of very challenging times of great change.  I believe that is the case now as well.  Where I see a difference, is that historically innovation took place within an organization.  Today, in some cases that is still reality.  However, it is being overshadowed by many examples of life-changing innovations resulting from teams working together across companies, internal silos and across the world to create new realities that would never have been possible. These teams exemplify the best outcomes from trust, sharing of resources and talent, significant and consistent effort and true collaboration.  Those are the exciting stories, and the ones that challenge the rest of us to get out of our previous “boxes” and stop making “baby step” changes and make radical, life changes.  Good luck! 

Send me an email @ lisa@a-fresh-perspective.com if you have any comments on my perspective.  I’m very open to hearing yours.

Best always,

Meet Lisa Hays, President/CEO