growth mindset: My first experience

Fresh out of college my first project was to implement an inventory system for a production nursery.

IT WAS A DISASTER…

Yet, I should have seen it coming.

As a mid-level manager with a passion for innovation, I found myself at a crossroads when I attempted to introduce the new program within the company. Eager to steer the ship towards positive change, I started on a doomed journey that proved to be more challenging than I could have ever anticipated.

The idea was simple yet transformative — a new program that could streamline processes, enhance productivity, and ultimately contribute to the company's growth. Excited by the potential benefits, I dove headfirst into the project, armed with optimism and a belief that positive change would be embraced by all, because why wouldn’t they be right?

WRONG!

My optimism soon collided with a harsh reality: resistance from key managers and owners. Despite presenting a well-thought-out plan backed by solid research, my efforts were met with skepticism and pushback. The reasons varied, from fear of the unknown, the “extra work” it could cause, to a deep-seated attachment to the status quo leading mangers 30+ years older than myself.

The lack of support from those in influential positions became a looming shadow over my ambitions for positive change.

One of the major challenges was overcoming the mindset deeply ingrained in the company's culture. It was a classic case of resistance to change, a phenomenon that has been studied extensively. According to a report by McKinsey, nearly 70% of change efforts fail due to employee resistance and lack of management support.

Was I really about to become a part of that 70%?

Despite these challenges, the experience taught me a valuable lesson: the significance of cultivating a growth mindset within the workplace. This is where it has to start, without it, any project will start off 6 feet under.

A growth mindset is the belief that abilities can be developed through dedication and hard work, and it serves as a foundation for embracing change and fostering a culture of continuous improvement. This not only leads to individual success but also creates an environment conducive to innovation and adaptability.

So, how can companies foster a growth mindset and overcome resistance to change?

The answer lies in leadership. If you embody this trait, it begins to spread with the tenasity of glitter, popping up everywhere when you least expect it.

Reflecting on my own journey, I realized the importance of perseverance and resilience in the face of resistance. Rather than succumbing to the challenges, I doubled down on my efforts to communicate the benefits of the new program and actively sought to understand the concerns of those resistant to change.

The project was abandoned three months in.

My personal experience taught me that implementing positive changes in a company requires more than just a well-crafted plan. It demands an underlying commitment to a growth mindset, starting from the top leadership and permeating throughout the organization. By embracing change, fostering a culture of continuous improvement, and valuing the potential for growth in every individual, companies can break free from the shackles of resistance and embark on a journey towards sustained success and innovation.