Openness to change

One of my favorite commercials is a classic ad from a cellular network provider that humorously depicts our habitual reactions to change.

The scene features a bugler from St. Mary's Church in Krakow. Knowing he won't be able to play the bugle call from the church tower, he improvises. In an act of desperation and reflex to cope with life's situations, he decides to play the bugle call from his current location, where he got stuck, and transmits the signal via a mobile phone.

The bugler's resourcefulness causes a stir among a group of villagers. His actions cause a cognitive shock in them. Taken by surprise by this deviation from tradition, they instinctively cling to their old habits and resist to accept this situation as acceptable.

This commercial brilliantly illustrates a universal truth: every change begins with shock and disbelief, often followed by rejection and questioning. Many potential changes never materialize because they are dismissed during this initial stage.

Reflect on your own approach to change. How many changes do you reject outright? How many do you consider? How many do you ultimately embrace? After your initial knee-jerk reaction, what helps you move to a stage where you can at least consider the change?

Consider what strategies help you gain perspectives beyond your own. What makes it easier for you to engage in self-awareness and personal growth? By exploring these questions, you can develop a more open and adaptable mindset towards change.