Change is inevitable—but how you respond to it can shape your success. As a businesswoman over 40, you’ve already mastered resilience and adaptability. But how can you harness change to grow, innovate, and amplify your unique voice? Let’s break it down.
The Problem: Resistance to Change in Business
Even the most experienced leaders can resist change, especially when comfort zones provide stability. This resistance can block innovation and stunt growth.
Detailed Signs You’re Resisting Change:
- Being Analog When in a Digital World:
- Problem: A business owner continues using outdated customer relationship management (CRM) software despite new automation and analytics tools because learning a new system feels overwhelming.
- Solution: Schedule regular tech reviews and dedicate time to learning one new tool at a time, starting with features that directly impact your workflow.
- Step Up Your Networking Game:
- Problem: Continuing to rely solely on in-person networking events when virtual connections and social media marketing have become key avenues for building relationships and finding clients.
- Solution: Balance traditional approaches with new strategies by attending both virtual and in-person events while gradually expanding your online presence.
- Not Keeping Up with Customer Needs or Trends:
- Problem: A product-based business sees declining sales but hesitates to pivot to digital services or adjust offerings to meet current customer needs.
- Solution: Conduct customer surveys to understand preferences and explore ways to innovate while staying aligned with your brand values.
- Lagging in Industry Updates:
- Problem: An entrepreneur avoids attending conferences or reading industry news to escape the pressure of staying current.
- Solution: Set aside 15-30 minutes daily for industry updates and connect with peers for support and shared insights.
- Being a Control Freak and Refusing to Delegate:
- Problem: Handling every task yourself to maintain control rather than hiring experts who can manage specialized areas like social media or bookkeeping.
- Solution: Start by outsourcing a single task and track the impact on your productivity and stress levels.
The Solution: Reframing Change as Opportunity
- Adopt a Growth Mindset:
See change as a teacher, not a threat. Ask yourself: What is this shift teaching me about my business and growth? - Be a Lifelong Learner:
Explore new ideas, technologies, or services that align with your evolving goals. - Use Experience to Your Advantage:
Your years of knowledge and adaptability are invaluable assets. Use them to lead through change with confidence. - Build a Support Network:
Surrounding yourself with like-minded and positive entrepreneurs can enhance your network.
Embracing Change: Turning Challenges into Opportunities
Embracing change is about more than survival—it’s about thriving. Reframing challenges as opportunities can unlock a whole new level of success. Let this be your invitation to lean into change, learn from it, and grow stronger than ever.
For tips and advice, subscribe to the Problem & Solution Series. If you need more inspiration, then tune into The Jameela Adams Experience podcast every Friday.
