Please know that no matter who you are today, it doesn’t define who you have to be tomorrow. I often fell into the hole of thinking I had to stay put to stay on track. If I told someone about my current life or my plans, it was etched in stone. If I made a promise or a vow, I thought I should follow through no matter what. But nothing could be farther from the truth.

If I love country music today, it doesn’t mean I can’t begin listening to hip hop tomorrow.

If red is my favorite color today, it doesn’t mean I can’t opt for a light violet if I’m so inclined.

Change

The definition of change is simple – make or become different. We can change for the better. We can change for the worse. Sometimes we can even change inadvertently. Change is always around us. Sometimes we accept it. And other times we stomp our feet and complain. But it’s not going anywhere. The most constructive way to live with it is to accept and embrace it.

Guess what?

These rules apply to your business, too. It’s easy for companies to fall into detrimental patterns.

If a sales team followed a specific plan – a plan that worked when it was introduced 30 years ago – it doesn’t mean it’ll work now or forever. Change it. If your social media plan doesn’t seem to be working, change it. Even if you think a law is unfair or unjust, you can lobby to have it changed – yes you!

If something isn’t helpful, healthy, or constructive, wouldn’t you want to change it? Continuing down a path of disappointment for the sake of consistency is morbid. We’ve all been guilty at times of avoiding change. It’s scary! It goes against our need for comfort and routine. But without accepting change, we’ll be swimming against the current. Sitting on a raft and floating down the river is so enjoyable. That’ why so many people do it. But trust me, white-knuckling the raft’s handles and navigating some rapids is much more rewarding.

If you think something needs to change, chances are you’re right. If you’re unsure of what to do, read a book, talk to people, or at least utilize Google and read some articles. Educate yourself on the changes you can make, develop a flexible plan of action, and then bite the bullet. Make the changes!

You might just be surprised at how much comfort you’ll find outside your comfort zone.