The Winds of Change

Today we have a leadership change in our country. Whether you are a Republican or a Democrat, black or white, this marks a significant event that will long be remembered in the annuls of history. As the Bush administration closes and the Obama administration begins a new dawn has risen in our country. The winds of change are blowing. In the economy, politics, communication, business and social outreach, there is a new current running through our culture. Some would say this is a good and long over-due change. Others would vehemently disagree. Yet all would have to agree, it is change. As these winds of change blow having a solid base of relationships is vital to your successful navigation of this transition season. How did a no-name junior senator without a track record obtain the highest elected office in the world? Relationship…bottom line he connected with more people. He engaged people in conversation and connected with them on a personal level through email, text messages, phone conferences and personal appearances. Communication was the difference. In your season of change it is no different. There must be two-way communication as you connect with people. And you must not connect with just anyone. Connect and communicate with people you trust, people you can bear your soul to. People who will tell you the truth. People who will give you perspective. People who will help you chart out a path to your future. People who will fight for you and with you. People who will defend you. People who will stand with you in the most difficult of times. For some this is a spouse or family member. For others it is a long-time friend or confidant. As you consider your life and the journey you are on, remember to build some relationship equity BEFORE you enter your next transition season. And be that kind of friend for others who are going through their own season of change. Yes the winds of change blow all the time. Some times you are not affected. Other times you are forced into the midst of hurricane force winds that knock you down. Be sensitive to others in transition. Be aware of your own seasons of change. And finally, be ready to engage the relationship factor so you don’t isolate yourself during these seasons.