Rethinking Change

Rethinking Change: Embracing the Everyday over the Grandiose

During a session with leaders, I asked, “What comes to your mind when you hear the word ‘Change’?” Predictably, responses ranged from “it’s the only constant,” to “it’s hard, scary, inevitable, outside comfort zone and inevitably. Someone always brings up the “Caterpillar to Butterfly” metaphor.

This metaphor, while beautiful, hints at why change efforts are often frustrating. The metamorphosis of a caterpillar into a butterfly is not mere change—it is transformation.

The Problem with Seeing Change as Transformation

1. Transformation is One-Sided and Linear Transformation implies a one-way, linear process—the butterfly doesn’t revert to a caterpillar. This sets an unconscious expectation that change, once achieved, is permanent. When reality doesn’t conform, frustration and resignation ensue. In my experience as a coach, I have seen and hears this often.

If we view change as non-linear and cyclical, akin to the natural cycles, we accept that setbacks are part of the journey. We recognize that just like the seasons, change is a continuous process.Like breathing.

2. Episodic Nature of Transformation Transformation events are rare and episodic. Focusing solely on these monumental shifts causes us to overlook the myriad micro-changes happening constantly. This constant longing for the next big transformation can make us absent in and to our daily lives, perpetually dissatisfied because we’re always waiting for that one big moment.The One BIg thing, may be great for marketing, but not so much in living.

3. Addiction to Transformation The allure of transformation is potent. The intense focus and energy we devote to these events create a high. But after each transformation, there’s often a void—”Now what?” Regular life feels mundane in comparison. This can lead to a cycle of chasing the next big transformation or delaying it to prolong the excitement.

Embracing Change: A Faithful Companion

Unlike transformation, change is a more faithful companion. The butterfly does continue to change after its transformation—adjusting, adapting, living. Just saying.

Change is continuous, small, and cyclical. It offers countless opportunities for celebration in everyday experiences. We need to appreciate change as it is: a series of small, humble steps rather than giant leaps.

The Grace of Small Changes

Perhaps, we need to recognize and celebrate the small, everyday changes, even when we are not paying specific attention. And when transformations occur, marvel at it with awe and gratitude. And then return to the rhythm of regular, humble change.

Maybe we need different metaphors that make sense to the reality of our lives.

By shifting our perspective from grandiose transformations to the grace of everyday changes, we create a more natural rhythm and less stress and resistance to change. Maybe, it may help be more in the moment when change IS happening. and celebrate the grace of the journey .