Change is Essential for Growth

Cathie Leimbach • May 10, 2022

“Organizations are perfectly designed to get the results they are currently getting. To get different results, they have to change.” Many leadership experts use variations of this quote to remind us that if we want different results, we need to do things differently. Yet, all of us, at some time or other, get stuck in a rut rather than risk the uncertainty of change. 


C. S. Lewis said “We all want progress. But progress means getting nearer to the place you want to be and if you have taken a wrong turning, then to go forward does not get you any nearer.” When our current path is not taking us towards our goal, if we really wish to achieve our goal we must change our path, no matter how difficult that may be.


Why do so many of us keep doing what we have always done, even though we are unhappy with the results. Andy Stanley says it is because “We become so comfortable with how we do what we do, that we forget why we do it and who we do it for.” Paying attention to our purpose, our destination, and frequently adjusting how we get there is what leads to success. 


The pandemic has brought many changes, most of which we had no control over. Since, when we are in control, we feel more confident about being effective, our stress levels increase when our circumstances change rapidly. We are living in a whirlwind of change which we may be tempted to resist. Yet, if we don’t want to be left behind the norm, it is important for us to embrace the most important changes in our circumstances.


Since it is best to focus on only a few changes at a time, it is important to make the most important changes first. Let’s take Stephen R. Covey’s advice to “Begin with the end in mind.” This requires that we are crystal clear on the end result from our work. Where are we headed? What are we providing to our customers? Why does the organization exist? Leaders must define the intended results and continually communicate the desired end to every employee and volunteer. 


Once there is clarity about the purpose and goals of the organization, then it is time to develop an effective way to get there. What are the processes that will best achieve the end results? Regularly evaluate progress towards the intended end result and focus all workplace changes on improving end results.


Since the world around us is always changing, we frequently need to change aspects of our lives. When we focus on WHAT we want to achieve, are clear on WHY this is important, and then adjust HOW we do our work and live our lives to achieve our goals, the benefits of changing will outweigh the stress of changing. 


May you embrace quality change and be the better for it!

Managing Anxiety During Unstable Times

By Cathie Leimbach • September 2, 2025
The past five years have brought many big changes. From world events to personal challenges, life feels less predictable than ever. This constant uncertainty affects our emotions and mental health both at home and at work. When everything feels unstable, it's normal to feel confused and frustrated. Sometimes we react in ways that don't help. Anxiety happens when we worry about what might go wrong in the future. Our minds race with "what if" thoughts, affecting us both physically and mentally. The good news is we can build emotional resilience to handle these tough times better. Here's how to start: Focus on what you can control: When something specific is making you worry, figure out what steps you can take to reduce negative outcomes. If you're stressed about being late to a meeting, set a reminder on your phone to leave with enough time to arrive 15 minutes early. If you're concerned about finishing a work project on time, schedule dedicated time on your calendar to work on it. If you realize you can't finish it alone, ask your boss if you can have more time or see if a coworker can help out. Take positive action: Instead of worrying about problems, do something small to make your situation better. Clean your workspace, call someone you care about, or take a short walk outside. Build stronger relationships: Reach out to family, friends, or coworkers. Have lunch together, share your worries with someone you trust, or simply check in on others. These connections help us feel less alone during hard times. When we work together and support each other, we can step back from fear and worry about situations we can't control. Remember, we can't control everything that happens, but we can control how we respond.

The Need for True Human Connection

By Cathie Leimbach • August 21, 2025
In today’s fast-paced world, it’s easy to get caught up in schedules, screens, and endless to-do lists. But what people really crave is something deeper—true human connection. Dr. Paul White, who studies workplace relationships, reminds us that appreciation and connection are not just “nice to have”—they are essential for our well-being. And researcher Brené Brown shows that real connection comes from vulnerability, where people feel safe, seen and valued. Without this kind of connection, many struggle with loneliness, anxiety, or even depression. On the other hand, when we feel truly connected, we’re happier, more engaged, more resilient, and more productive. So how can we build better connections? Start small. Proactively reach out for a live conversation instead of only sending a quick text or email. Take time to connect with peers at work or in your community. Ask others to share something personal about themselves, and share something personal about your life. These simple actions can create moments of trust and belonging. And in a world that can sometimes feel disconnected, these moments are not just valuable—they are vital. Join Us! We invite you to explore this topic further at our upcoming virtual event: Managing Performance in Today’s Workforce. Learn practical strategies to strengthen workplace connection and performance.  View event details here.