Change is inevitable. Growth is optional. ~ John C. Maxwell.

 

A repeating theme has come up in many conversations I’ve had recently. “I can’t believe the holidays are here already. Time is going by so fast.” Rather than discussing the philosophy of time as a manmade construct, a more appropriate question is that posed in this month’s feature, "Transforming Our World," about how equipped we are as individuals, families, groups and societies to adapt to the changes that occur over time.

 

Senior writer Linda Sechrist aptly quotes thought leader Laureen Golden: “Psychologically, we were raised, educated and socialized in a world that no longer really exists. We have a new world that we must navigate and we need a new psychology, a whole new way of being for that world.”

 

A similar thought from social philosopher Eric Hoffer in 1973 concurs: “In times of change, the learners will inherit the Earth, while the learned find themselves beautifully equipped to deal with a world that no longer exists.”

 

It takes focused effort to identify and drop old paradigms, and we need to collectively consider if we are ready to exert that effort. How will we most effectively be able to learn the skills and structures we need to succeed in a more complex world? Maybe we’re in luck. According to Sechrist, there is “an opportunity for us to access innovative methods of learning, discovery and connection.” However, she states, “These methods focus on an ethos of collaboration.” That last word makes me pause.

 

Based on the current trend toward increasing polarization on various fronts throughout our country and the world, asking for collaboration on key issues can be a challenge, yet here we are in the midst of chaos on the verge of transformation. Will we step up in a collective, collaborative effort, rise to the occasion and figure out how to survive and thrive in a new world with a new mindset? Only time will tell.

 

There’s a glimmer of hope from Sechrist as she concludes, “In these turbulent times when all the old boundaries are unravelling and all the old certainties are dissolving, there is a possibility for creative transformation if we work together.”

 

Even if politicians are slow to follow this path, there are business leaders, entrepreneurs, social activists, community leaders, academics and influencers among us that can take the helm and make a difference by collaborating and leading into a new world, which rightfully includes feeling good, living simply and laughing more. Stay open-hearted and be the change. Happy Holidays!