How do we change stagnation?
Have you ever heard somebody say, “We have always done it this way”? Is this stagnation or refusal to change? I have been dealing with an issue that people feel strongly about. At one-point attendance was a concern at this high school and the decision was made to tie attendance to semester testing. At this school if a student was absent for more than three days, they are required to take a semester test. If they are absent for less than three days, they would not need to take a semester test. I understand the reasoning for this rule, but I feel in is inappropriate. Therefore, we are evaluating this language.
I use this example only as a discussion point about continuing to do what we have always done. I have been guilty of doing this in the past myself, and the reasoning is comfort. We do things out of comfort because we fear change or the unknown consequences. Many people fear changes in their job or some other aspect of their life. By no means am I minimizing other people’s thoughts, ideas, or fears. People believe what they believe and that is ok. What I have noticed over the years, as time goes by people remain in positions and are trying new things in some areas but not in other areas. They are not intentionally reviewing parts that they have not changed to evaluate their current practices. Stagnation occurs when someone does the same thing time and time again.
When I was a classroom teacher, I was willing to attempt new initiatives. When I would run into difficulties, I would work through it to some extent, but many times I fell back on what I have always done. I soon made changes in my life where I needed to stretch myself and do more, no matter the consequences. I am no expert, but that is how I fight stagnation. We must continue to review parts of our lives to avoid stagnation. In my current position I must make sure the organization is always growing and stretching. Individuals are what make an organization move along, and it can be difficult to get everyone on board with these changes or individualize these changes to benefit everyone. The most effective way, in my opinion is to look at yourself first. Look for areas to change a bit, to avoid stagnation in your life.
Where do you see less growth in your family life, career, or spirituality?
Why is stagnation bad for you?
Is there someone to help you through parts you wish to improve on in your life?
