“The line between failure and success is so fine that we…are often on the line and do not know it.” Elbert Hubbard – 1856-1915 American Writer, founder of Roycroft Artisan Community, East Aurora, NY
I really enjoy the talent others have with words. I love the mental images that can be created with well chosen and well constructed sentences by writers who play with the power resident in their words and how we interpret those words in our minds. For example, what mental images are created when you read:
Change has no conscience. The technology of change is itself changing. Our challenge is to deal with the shrinking of time. Change waits for no one. History happens fast. There is no off-season anymore. High- velocity change creates radical shifts. Being careful can be dangerous. Change can scare. If nothing new is on the horizon, it’s time to worry. Instead of waiting for instructions, take the initiative. Change can create a culture of dependence; but maybe we can’t afford dependence. Passive resistance is one response to unwanted change. Problems are caused by change. Change is caused by problems. Play it safe in the face of change. Take more risks in the face of change. In times of change strengths can become weaknesses. Avoid making mistakes. Or, in times of change being willing to make mistakes can lead to survival.
What mental images came to you as you read these sentences? Are the images full of positive anticipation or hesitancy, even foreboding? Your past experiences probably influenced those mental images.
So, when it comes to dealing with change, when it comes to responding to another business challenge and the change that comes with it...which side of the success or failure line are your mental images coming from?
“Whether you think you can, or think you can’t…you’re right.” Henry Ford. That’s a mental image I can warm up to.
And one last “word” question for you: What one word describes you?
IKR