By Dana Phillips.

What is your reaction when you hear the word “change?”  For some of you, it’s “bring it on!” For others, it’s “oh no, not again!”  Change is inevitable, and one thing we can be sure of is there will always be change.

Whether you are initiating the change or someone else is, as a leader, you’ll want to be prepared to lead the shift to a successful outcome. During my leadership journey, I’ve led many changes in my personal life and my business life. Some went well, others not so much. What I learned is when I took time to be mentally prepared, everything went smoother.

Leading change starts with you as the leader. Whether this is a business change or a personal change, here are four areas you’ll want to have clarity around for success. Take time to answer these questions and journal your answers before you begin any change.

Your Vision

How clear is my vision for this change?

What else do I need to know to have a clearer vision?

How do I see the impact of this change in 6 months…1 year?

What are others expecting from me as their leader?

Communication

How will others be affected by the change?

What’s going to stay the same?

How can I share my vision focusing on what’s in it for them?

How will I keep everyone focused on the main thing?

Passion

How passionate am I about my vision?

How can I get passionate about it?

How will I stay strong?

Clear strategies and tactics

What systems do I need to have in place for the change?

Who is going to move powerfully ahead?

What resources do I need to prepare for the transition?

What are the first steps I will take?

Whether you’re preparing for personal change, growth in team performance, a promotion, or a change your company is initiating, by taking time to prepare, you will be ready to lead the change with confidence.

“The secret of change is to focus all of your energy, not on fighting for the old but on building the new.”

~Socrates

Want to Hear How Other Leaders View Change?

Being a leader is more than managing sales and recruiting. Being a leader tests your self-concept and relationship skills.  The Direct Selling Leaders Network is the Facebook group known as a safe place to share questions and answers about growing your business.  Leaders are curious.  This is a great group to find out some answers.

The Direct Selling Leaders’ Network is the Facebook group for leaders like you. This social learning community is the premier online community for direct selling leaders, future leaders, and those who want to create their future. Leadership is a way of life, not just a position. Join us as we add new FREE content every week! Recruiting, Getting Your Team to Work, and Tips on Working Smarter, Not Harder.  NOT A MEMBER?  Please join some of the best leaders in direct sales.