Will You #ChooseToChallenge?

Mar 3, 2021

Choose to Challenge

The theme for International Women’s Day this year is ‘Choose to Challenge’, which I think is amazing. In a year, which has been turbulent and very challenging, we have learnt so much about ourselves, our environment and what is truly possible.

However, the truth is, when this is over, there is a high probability that we will revert back to type, in my opinion. The sense of urgency will have disappeared and we will go back to some sort of normal that we recognise.

That would be a disaster. That would be a waste.

In a very short space of time, we have achieved a huge amount. Communities have become reacquainted. There have been great advancements in medicine, technology and business. We have had time to consider what is really important.

Ask why?

Therefore we should keep the momentum going, even if the ‘urgency’ isn’t there. I want my children to live in a world where challenging the every day becomes normal. I want my children to confidently ask why, knowing that this will help trigger progress. I want my children to freely and respectfully use their voices knowing that it’s okay.

But how do we continue on this accelerated journey of challenge and change? It starts with us, as individuals. We need to behave in a way that supports a culture of challenge and change, which, as I always say, starts with small steps.

Here are 5 tips that will help you think differently and start you on your journey of choosing to challenge

Be creative

This time has forced us to be more creative in how we live and work. The restrictions have meant that we’re not necessarily able to do things the way we’ve always done them. We have been forced to change. Forced to think creatively. There is no reason why being creative should stop, just because restrictions are being lifted. If anything, we can be more creative because there is no limit.

Ask why?

Having worked in the corporate world, I’m well aware of the ‘we’ve always done it like that’. And so, it was accepted and rarely changed, unless there was an incentive. But this stops progress. It can also breed complacency. Which leads to mistakes. So have the courage to ask why and keep asking why until there is no more why and there is only an awesome answer.

What would happen if……

Today’s environment has taught us that anything is possible if you really test the system. So, how can we maintain that? How can we remain openminded? Instead of asking ‘what can we do?’ which feels like we’re putting limitations on the outcome. Why not ask ‘what would happen if….’ and see where that takes us. Even if the answer is unrealistic, it will still help to push back the barriers that are blocking our thinking.

Focus on what is possible

It’s easier to focus on what can’t happen. We know what can’t happen. Wouldn’t it be better to focus on what is possible and how that can act as a springboard? How many new and interesting ideas would come by just thinking differently?

Things can always improve

We know that things can always be improved. Just look at how telephones have changed. When I was younger mobile phones didn’t exist. But for my children, they’re normal. It’s about making continuous improvement being what we naturally do. Being aware of whether there is a better way to do things.

possible

During this unusual time, we have learnt so much. However, it’s time to be more conscious about what happens next. It’s time to ensure that we don’t just slip back into old habits, bad habits. Take all the positives and keep going to make life even better for all of us.

Will you choose to challenge?

 

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You might also like to read ‘Do you have courage?‘ 

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