Every day I use the words “transformation,” “change,” or “shift”! But they’re not all the same thing.
The term “transformation” comes from Latin and is made up of two words: “trans” means “across” and “formare” means “to shape.”
Together, the term means “to reshape” or “to form anew.”
I really like the image this conjures up. Something is being reshaped. And to me, “shaping” sounds so active—not as if it just happens on its own.
In a business context, transformation processes are about reshaping a company or organization. This can mean that the following three areas:
➡️ Corporate culture
➡️ Corporate leadership
➡️ Corporate communication
need to be reshaped. This also involves revising structures and processes and, possibly, creating new products and ways of working.
The purpose or reason for a transformation can vary greatly:
👍 Adapting to market conditions
👍 Staying competitive
👍 A phase of growth.
It sounds great, and many people find it desirable—but they’d prefer NOT to change ANYTHING about the way things are!
And that’s why there’s a perception that transformation is very difficult and challenging. Change—or reshaping something—always requires a lot of courage, commitment, and the ability or creativity to implement changes, as well as a genuine DESIRE to do so.
In my opinion—and based on my own personal experience—transformation is essential and a necessary part of the journey if you want to be successful and strive for growth. That includes personal growth, too.
Companies and people who aren’t willing to change risk standing still or “aging” without experiencing anything new.
After all, nature and the world are constantly changing—and reshaping themselves. That means going with the flow, helping to shape the future, and finding the right path for yourself.
I’d like to use my own story to encourage you to see that transformation can be fun and can bring a breath of fresh air to companies and teams!
After all, who wants to say on their deathbed, “My life was always the same, and I always remained the same person, resisting any kind of change”?
Let’s courageously face the necessary transformations and set our companies and organizations on a course toward a successful, positive, and growing future!
What’s your take on transformation?
Bianca-Maria