Working Up

by Dwayne Phillips

It can be disappointing to admit, but if we want significant change, we must bring it about slowly.

Significant change—the kind that brings big benefit over a big period of time—occurs slowly. Those two adjectives concerning change—significant and slow—appear inseparable.

I don’t like that. When I have a great idea for a great change that will bring great things, I want it quick, immediate is even better.

In my experience, however, when I bring about quick change, it isn’t significant. Something good comes, but it only lasts a little while. Or something comes that last a while, but it isn’t that good for us.

Thought. Effort. Plant seeds. Let them grow. Time. All these slow things. Little by little. Enough cliches. I hope the idea is coming across.

Leadership requires thought.

• Where do I want us to be one day?
• What should I do little by little each day that pulls us there?
• Do I have the desire, energy, and patience to continue on this path?
• Do I believe this change is good?
• Do I want to go to that place out there in our future?

The questions continue, and they don’t become any easier.