"What's in a name? That which we call a rose by any other name would smell as sweet."
These famous words reflect Juliet’s heartfelt belief that names are insignificant. Unfortunately, a majority of characters in Shakespeare’s play do not share her egalitarian feelings, as reflected in the high body count of both Montegues and Capulets. Even Romeo and Juliet’s storied love couldn’t overcome the barriers of a name. An unwillingness to adapt and change on the part of some doomed the relationship and future of the young couple.
Unlike Juliet, the Haloid Photographic Company understood the importance of change. Established in 1906, it was so small and insignificant that its main competitor, Eastman Kodak, ignored them. They were on the fringe of the photographic paper business, but somehow managed to survive the Great Depression and World War 2. By 1961, a machine they built was better known than the company, so they decided to leverage this circumstance by changing their name to reflect who they had become. The new name of the company was called Xerox.
Change is very difficult, but it is necessary. Every individual and all organizations must anticipate and prepare themselves for change. There is an inherent risk in change management, but remaining the same is not an option if you want to be vibrant, meaningful and have a lasting impact. There is always a cost to change, but change managed well will result in renewed energy and focus.
Are you ready for change on your life? Is your organization anticipating change? Change happens. You can't control change, but you do have control over your response.
