Three Keys to Embracing Change

Since UX Camp, I’ve wanted to learn more about UX (User Experience). So when the Ladies that UX email came about the upcoming event, “Embracing Change,” this jumped out:

“The pace of change today demands that we adapt more quickly than ever before. Structural and emotional impediments can make continuous learning challenging. What holds us back?”

Yes, I feel like I’m double-timing. I like to learn, but, yes, formats and apps can block me. Yes, what holds us back?

I decided to find out. Kathryn Campbell presented the UX perspective. And I took away tips that apply to my work and my life.

The Facts

• There’s continuous change.
• How we do things constantly evolves.

The Possible Responses

• Don’t change.

OR

• Adapt to change; don’t freak out about the new technology, apps.
• Be a change agent and make someone’s life more meaningful and satisfying.

But How?

Use our innate empathy—for ourselves and for those who use our products, read our content, live with us, or work with us.

Three Keys to Embracing Change

• Language: Understand the other person’s their language and use their terms.
  • A UX example. UX says the feature is confusing. The Production Team has different language: We’re working on post-launch feature enhancements. What do they mean? “Stuff we should have figured out before we shipped.”
• Values: Understand the other person’s values. Frame your points in terms of their values; don’t use facts.
  • Motivational interviewing prepares people for change. An example: Is there one small thing you could do?
• Relationships: Build relationships across departments and teams.
  • Look for potential allies for your project, people who share the benefit of what you do.
  • Do a pilot project with this potential ally. If that goes well, they will tell others.

We can’t adjust the pace of change. Yet we could choose not to embrace it. Abraham Maslow gives us that option: “In any given moment we have two options: to step forward into growth or to step back into safety.”

Stepping back may not be safe since some of the changes enhance our safety. And what happens if we step forward into growth? “When we are no longer able to change a situation—we are challenged to change ourselves.” (Victor Frankl)

I’ll take Maslow’s Option 1 and follow Frankl’s guidance—challenge myself to grow! (Like learning how to post this blog using the updated WordPress app!)

Who’s coming along?

How do you challenge yourself to grow?