Why Making Big Decisions is like Choosing an Avocado
Change is an avocado. Let me explain.
First, a side note: avocados are poisonous to most mammals. But, the gut of a giant ground sloth could handle them, making them responsible for seed dispersal far and wide (think about it). Of course, they went extinct in the Pleistocene but, just in the nick of time, humans figured out farming—so now we can enjoy guacamole. Phew.
Back to change. Like an avocado, when we first contemplate change, palm-and-judge the heft and worthiness of the thing, gently depress it for ripeness, most often we deem it too hard; not yet ready, needing more time.
Yet, the dark and subtle power of it draws us in. Think of what will be inside when the time is right!
So, we capitulate and make a bet—let’s go for it. Expensive, yes. Oh, but the delicious payback.
First change seems hard, then suddenly it’s too easy
Troublingly, now we are in the mood. We’ve overcome our fears. Greed sets in.
Is one really enough? A second is considered. But to choose harder or softer than the first one?
As you know, with avocados and change, it’s all about getting the timing right. Too soon, rock hard total resistance. Too late, mushy and gross.
Essentially, it’s a goldilocks situation or bust.
But, somehow we have a bag of six. We have lots of change lined up. What have we done? This will never all pan out. “Seemed like a good idea at the time,” we’ll later say. Hubris.
Your Role in Designing Better Change
Leaders can develop an outsized appetite for implementing change—overcommitting their people, failing to see those around them have passed the point of satiation. They can also be too risk-averse.
Missing the moment, and with that, lost opportunity.
What’s your Relationship with Change?
So, what’s your relationship to change? Like it or loathe it? Do you often take on too much or too little? And where does that come from in your life? Knowing this can help you predict how you’ll behave next time.
It may be difficult and take time, but examining your history with making a change can help your leadership and decision-making for the better.
Happy avocado picking!
Jonathan
Ps. If you’re struggling to manage a big change or want to better understand your relationship to change overall, I can help. Let’s talk.