“April is the cruelest month, breeding lilacs out of the dead land, mixing memory and desire, stirring dull roots with spring rain.” – T.S. Elliot
The notion of spring gives rise to a lot of different perspectives. The spring build season is always exciting in the telecommunications industry, but I’ve always been of a mind that this time of year is ideal for renewal.
Change can be difficult. That’s understandable. But, again, it really is a matter perspective. For example, President of the West Group for Gannett’s U.S. Community Publishing Division Laura Hollingsworth was recently quoted as saying the rumors of the death of newspapers have been greatly exaggerated. In fact, she believes that only the paper part of the newspaper is potentially endangered. So, she (and leaders of print publications worldwide) are reinventing themselves as “content providers.” By taking a different look at the conduit of their product – online, smartphones, tablets, etc. – they are bringing about a rebirth and revitalization of traditional print media.
At Clearfield, we constantly challenge ourselves to look at the way we do business. Our model is working great today. But will this be the case next year? In five years? 10 years?
If you could change one thing about your business or yourself, what would it be? What simple step could you take today to implement a change – no matter how slight?
- Do a quick Google search on emerging trends in your industry or market.
- Have an impromptu future-think brainstorming meeting.
- Assign a rotating “change guard” who is responsible for being ever-vigilant in monitoring changes and opportunities for growth.
As I look out the window, there are still snow banks in Minnesota. But, a special delivery of flowering tulips and daffodils (from the man in my life) added the promise of spring color to my office. Ultimately, as we move into this new season, I challenge you to open yourself to the possibilities of renewal — or to make it happen, if the status quo isn’t going in the direction you’d prefer.