Have you ever noticed that most major changes in this world are met with resistance, then great inertia during the first phase of implementation and then a rapid and massive wave of acceptance when about 40-50% of people have validated the change? Nothing more normal you might say. And yet…
The COVID-19 pandemic is the latest example. First there was the “small flu” according to some, then the shock and the sometimes-cynical criticism of the management of the crisis, and finally the rush to buy the vaccine.
In the business world, this phenomenon is well known, even if we can ask ourselves why. Indeed, what are the reasons for these repetitions that slow down the development of new ideas, new approaches. The answer can be found in one sentence: It is us!
Neuroscience explains to a large extent this “phenomenon” of rejection, then fear and finally acceptance. Our brain has been programmed for thousands of years to preserve our safety and reacts according to latent dangers.
Novelty is a form of danger that we cannot control. Our brain therefore compares present situations with those it has already experienced in the past: if it detects a risk or an unknown element, it will signal it by generating anxiety, doubt, and fear. On the other hand, if the experience has been positive, we will be relaxed and accept the situation with serenity.
What is interesting is that some similar situations do not generate a more rapid positive reaction. The world of work is constantly changing, and most people do not get used to it, despite the successful steps taken. Why is this?
Perhaps part of the answer lies in the growing dichotomy between the discourse and the action of management and politics. A form of generalised mistrust when many things are going perfectly well.
Let us avoid inertia and accept change more quickly. This is not being slavish but being quick: it is a big difference!
Good luck, good thoughts, and good reading.