The story of Charles Dickens's 'A Christmas Carol' seems straightforward enough - Scrooge is shown the error of his ways in a frightening and dramatic way and he turns from a miserable miser to joyful philathropist. But is it that straightforward?
Day after day, we hear about the deadly dangers of excess alcohol, fatty foods and cigarettes, yet so many of us still over-indulge. What does it really take to change our minds? What is it that Dickens does to Scrooge that is so powerful and what can we learn about change in our own lives and organisations?
Clearly, Scrooge is scared half to death about terrible cosequences of his wrong-doings. But more than that, he is given the chance to examine his past, present and future and connecting all three together. He is able to stand back from his life and view it as an observer. Why this is so powerful is not entirely clear, but it also works for people and for organsiations. Taking people through an objective review of the trials and tribulations of past changes, examining the current challenges of change and projecting the benefits and dangers that lie ahead as a result of current attitudes and actions is a liberating experience and holds the key to unlocking the will to change. Try it for yourself!
Day after day, we hear about the deadly dangers of excess alcohol, fatty foods and cigarettes, yet so many of us still over-indulge. What does it really take to change our minds? What is it that Dickens does to Scrooge that is so powerful and what can we learn about change in our own lives and organisations?
Clearly, Scrooge is scared half to death about terrible cosequences of his wrong-doings. But more than that, he is given the chance to examine his past, present and future and connecting all three together. He is able to stand back from his life and view it as an observer. Why this is so powerful is not entirely clear, but it also works for people and for organsiations. Taking people through an objective review of the trials and tribulations of past changes, examining the current challenges of change and projecting the benefits and dangers that lie ahead as a result of current attitudes and actions is a liberating experience and holds the key to unlocking the will to change. Try it for yourself!
