fear of change

recently, a clinical psychologist (ph.d) taught a group about the three negative emotions: fear, anger, and hurt. all other negative emotions, he stated, are associated in one way or another with these three.

fear (the negative aspect), as defined by webster, is a distressing emotion aroused by impending danger, evil, or pain. fear can keep us from doing something that could cause us harm, it can keep us from doing something that could be beneficial, and it can paralyze us to the point of not acting at all.

for any organization, fear can result in the organization being unable to do what is necessary for it to accomplish its mission or enable it to do what is necessary for sustainability. moreover, fear of change is one of the most debilitating emotions organizations must overcome as we progress further into this century, a century filled with more uncertainty and rapid change than any we have previously faced.

if you are part of an organization confronting change, the easiest thing to do is to ignore engaging in any discussion or decision-making. this is like ‘burying your head in the sand hoping the danger will pass.’ however, as w. edwards deming – noted intellect and leading personality of the quality revolution – stated, “it is not necessary to change. survival is not mandatory.”