Navigating Change and Stability: Lessons from the Ocean (and Our Project Teams)
This morning, as I reflected on the nature of change and stability, I realized how much these two forces shape not only our personal growth but also the success of any project team. What if we viewed change and stability as two distinct personalities you might encounter around the meeting table? What if, instead of seeing them as opposites, we saw them as essential partners in progress?
The Two Personalities: Change and Stability
Imagine your project team. There’s always someone who thrives on new ideas, eager to experiment, ready to take risks and drive results. Let’s call them “Change.” Then there’s their counterpart—thoughtful, data-driven, introspective, preferring to study, reflect, and ensure the foundation is strong before moving forward. We’ll call them “Stability.”
Both personalities are vital. Change pushes us to adapt, to innovate, to move forward. Stability ensures we’re grounded, that our actions are sustainable, and that we’re learning from what’s happening around us. The magic happens when these two perspectives appreciate each other—and work together.
Taking a Cue from Nature: The Ocean Analogy
Consider how scientists study the ocean. They don’t just rush in and make assumptions. They monitor, gather data, observe patterns over time, and adjust their theories as new information emerges. This patient, ongoing process allows them to understand the climate and predict shifts before they happen.
Our project environments are much the same. If we take time to monitor the “weather” of our teams—through feedback loops, regular check-ins, and honest conversations—we’re better equipped to notice shifts in behavior or morale. This awareness lets us course-correct when needed, just like scientists adjust their models with new data.
The Power of Feedback Loops
Feedback isn’t just about fixing what’s broken. It’s about understanding what’s working right now and valuing the strengths each team member brings to the table. When we appreciate our current state—not just our future potential—we build the resilience to keep going, even when things get tough.
Embracing Both Sides: The Role of Leadership
Strong leadership is about balancing these two personalities. It’s about recognizing that some people naturally lean toward stability—preferring to reflect, learn, and analyze—while others are wired for change, ready to act and innovate. Both are needed.
Leaders who bring teams together to share perspectives foster an environment where everyone feels valued. This creates a healthy team dynamic: impactful and results-oriented, yet data-driven and introspective.
Self-Awareness: The Anchor
Ultimately, the key is self-awareness. When we understand our own tendencies—whether we’re more drawn to stability or change—we can appreciate what we bring to the team right now. This self-acceptance grounds us, creating the stability we need to be adaptable. It also opens us up to experiment, take risks, and evolve—just as nature does.
Conclusion: Evolving Together
So, the next time you find yourself in a team meeting, look around. Notice the “Change” personalities and the “Stability” personalities. Celebrate the balance. Take a cue from scientists and the ocean: monitor, adapt, and value the unique strengths in the room. Because it’s not about choosing one over the other—it’s about evolving together.
What’s your natural tendency—do you lean toward change or stability? How do you see these personalities playing out in your team? Share your thoughts in the comments below!