When Transformation Stops Becoming a Buzz Word

I work in the business world. For years, I have been pitching (and been pitched) this idea of digital transformation, businesses transforming how they operate by leveraging modern technology. Organizations must use the latest in technology like the Cloud, AI and XR in order for their organization to operate efficiently and to create the maximum revenue streams. It’s a pretty simple theory, use the knowledge that you have coupled with the proven technologies in the market to create a whole new way of working.

Sounds simple, no?

I’ve had time to reflect over the weekend to understand why businesses aren’t transforming, why are they staying with the old way of working when things could be so much easier. Then I looked at human nature. Every day we encounter things that will test our limits, push us past a certain boundary or scare us senseless and, for many, going back to the comfort zone will suffice. Why push yourself past into an unknown, scary world, when you’ve been doing just “okay” where you are? Human beings are terrified of transformation. We are scared to be something we are currently not and are nervous about how others will see this “new self.” For many, being “okay” and “surviving” is just fine.

While Coronavirus is still spreading and people are still dying, this is a time for all of us to self-reflect and start living. I feel like we are larva inside of our cocoon, ready to be a beautiful butterfly. When did we get inside our cocoon and start this transformation? I believe it happened on 9/12/2001. A year after 9/11, I remember Time Magazine asking its readers to provide a 1 word answer to the question...”What did you lose a year ago?” It was a time to reflect back to what we lost on that dreadful day and for mourners to say, out loud, the names of those they lost. I remember thinking about this all day and I crafted a simple response: “We lost our innocence.” By far, this had the biggest reaction and Time Magazine simple stated that nothing could be truer. But, it was on 9/12 that we went into our cocoons and sheltered ourselves from pain and change.

Nineteen years later, we have been forced to change. We have had to change the way we eat, shop, socialize and how we do our jobs. We are asking each other to be a different person, to communicate better, to be a better friend, to work harder and think about people, other than ourselves.

Our cocoon is dissipating and inside each of our cocoons is a beautiful transformation. I feel like I’m coming out of mine and am changing to a stronger, more confident, passionate woman who knows what she wants and if others can’t get onboard with it, then it’s okay to let go.

Today I challenge you to start emerging from your cocoons. Whether you know it or not, you are being transformed and while it’s scary and unpredictable, it can be one of the greatest adventures of your life.