Some years ago, I openly confessed my fear of change when I wrote:
“When I am often asked why I stayed at a particular organisation for 13 years, my response has always been family. Investing time and love in my children and maintaining a stable home has always been a priority every time I stare at the heights I desire to attain in the corporate world.
However, the other honest answer is
If you’re anything like me, you know what I mean. Change can be unsettling. I’ve resisted it, feared it, and even pretended it wasn’t happening more times than I can count. Yet every time I went through the process, I always emerged better.
Earlier this week, I read through the story of Joseph (Genesis 41) and was reminded of a 17-year-old boy who was plunged into CHANGE. He cried, fought, resisted, and probably wished it all away as often as he blinked. But Joseph’s process wasn’t something he could avoid; it was orchestrated by God. His journey of intense change lasted 13 years.
The result was a man transformed by God. Through the process, Joseph was broken and rebuilt with character, wisdom, and strategic leadership. He gained knowledge of cultural norms and business practices, becoming someone who solved a nation’s food crisis and opened its borders to international trade.
Like Joseph, I have faced a few changes that felt overwhelming. Even when they checked all the boxes, I still felt afraid to embrace it. I have moved countries, launched a social enterprise, and changed jobs and sectors—from banking to fintech, to edtech, and now cleantech.
Here’s what I’ve learnt –
Change is good. Change is necessary for growth.
It is the event that connects the dots of the unknown, the launchpad for the next phase.
So, as you progress this year, be reminded that you might encounter some mind-boggling changes. Some may appear in forms you will instinctively repel, resist, fight, or wish away. Others may stretch you in ways you never expected.
Here’s what I want you to remember: “This change is for good.” It will ultimately work out for your benefit (Genesis 50:20). It will build capacity, and wisdom, shape your character, and usher you into your frontiers.
So, be determined to accept it.
If you’re considering switching sectors, changing jobs, diversifying your business, or building something innovative, and fear is holding you back, here’s a word from me to you:
- Just do it. Accept the challenge and ride the wave.
- Don’t overthink it. Growth starts when you embrace the unknown.
- You’ve got this. Adaptability is part of who you are.
- You will succeed. Trust me—every change I have embraced has led to growth
One word for you Today is “Change is hard at first, messy in the middle, and gorgeous at the end.” – Robin Sharma.
