Transformation is a hot word these days, but what does it really mean? And what’s the difference between transformation and change?
In business, change management describes an organization reacting to external influences, by modifying regular actions to achieve the desired results. Change is knowable and incremental, and everyone recognizes when a change occurs. Transformation is about modifying a company’s core beliefs and long-term behaviors, in order to meet its goals. The results of such a process take time to quantify and are often not immediately evident, but have a permanent and far-reaching impact. While change management may support a transformation, a transformation is more than just change.
It is similar with personal transformation. Change is about reacting or responding to external influences, while transformation is an intentional choice to reinvent the way we relate to ourselves and the world. We change automatically, but we need to choose to transform ourselves. Personal transformation is a dynamic and uniquely individualized process of expanding one’s consciousness. By becoming aware of old patterns as well as new views of oneself, we can then integrate the views into our new definition of self.
Transformation is about our self-concept, or identifying with who we are and our place in the world. We learn much of our self-concept throughout life, including our beliefs, attitudes, opinions and limiting patterns. So, it is not actually who we are, but is rather a complex construct of our ego/survival mechanism. Transformation is a radical shift in our understanding of who we are, a revolution of our concept of self. It generates self-discovery and power beyond the old stories to which we have clung for so long. By committing to personal transformation, we shift who we think we are, create who we choose to Be, and realize possibility in all areas of life.
Moving beyond your current self to your authentic self is neither easy nor comfortable. The first step is to create a powerful intention for yourself. This requires a decision and declaration to make some changes, and a solid vision of the outcome you desire.
Personal transformation takes a lot of committed work and accountability. Having a why that inspires you to recommit in the face of challenges and breakdowns is a must. It is necessary to accomplish small goals daily, be consistent in your long-term plan, and celebrate your wins in order to keep the momentum and energy flowing. And the accountability of sharing your goals and process with others, tracking progress, and getting support through challenges is what teaches you to be accountable to yourself.
Transformation is serious work. Intention alone is not enough to create a successful transformation – it takes deliberate and dedicated action. But the benefits are greater than the work put in. A transformed person has the power of alignment, improved self-expression, and a sense of integrity in all aspects of their life.
It’s time to get out of your comfort zone and discover who you truly are!
Sources:
“What Is Personal Transformation? – Clarifying What We’re Working With.” Center for Transformational Coaching, 17 Feb. 2021, https://www.centerfortransformationalcoaching.com/personal-transformation/.
deBara, Deanna. “Transformation vs. Change: What’s the Difference?” Workflow Management Software by Integrify, 21 Sept. 2021, https://www.integrify.com/blog/posts/transformation-vs-change-whats-the-difference/.
Holley, Perry. “Engineering A Personal Transformation.” John Maxwell Company, 12 Apr. 2021, https://corporatesolutions.johnmaxwell.com/blog/engineering-a-personal-transformation/.
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