If your upbringing emphasized keeping the peace, it may be time to reevaluate that perspective and embrace your role as an agent of change.
What motivates you to stir things up within your team or organization? The answer is simple: to instigate change that generates momentum, sparking improvements and seizing opportunities that would otherwise be overlooked by adhering to the current norms. Change enhances our world.
Over the course of two years, I conducted research and interviewed a variety of individuals who have initiated change, ranging from providing meals to those in need to launching new enterprises and reimagining team dynamics.
I approached trusted colleagues with the question, “Who do you consider to be a Wave Maker?” Their suggestions led me to a diverse and captivating group of changemakers, including a Major League Baseball coach, an aspiring entrepreneur, a CEO, a community service advocate, and a recent graduate. I discovered commonalities in their perspectives on change and their proactive responses.
In my book Make Waves: Be the One to Start Change at Work and in Life, I outline how to kindle a wave and explore the essential traits that define a Wave Maker (or changemaker). While being a Wave Maker isn’t determined by biology, I noticed consistent thought patterns, actions, and behaviors that empowered all of them to initiate change across various circumstances.
4 characteristics of impactful changemakers
Are you a Wave Maker? Do you aspire to be one? Here are four characteristics of individuals who drive change and how you can incorporate them into your life today:
1. A changemaker prioritizes, ‘What’s in it for us?’ over, ‘What’s in it for me?’
Wave Makers focus on achieving their goals and the collective impact rather than seeking personal accolades. They are genuinely convinced that their mission benefits the wider community. They cultivate momentum around ideas that extend beyond individual interests, aiming to improve their workplace, community, or even the world. This approach sustains high levels of motivation, even when faced with challenges or obstacles.
To effect change, prioritize fostering genuine relationships. Changemakers value meaningful and diverse connections that are essential for reaching their objectives. Develop meaningful relationships that facilitate learning, strengthen networks, and provide purpose in your work.
2. They show determination while remaining adaptable to new insights.
Changemakers strike a healthy balance between steadfastness towards their goals and adaptability in light of new information. Rather than being discouraged by challenges, they stay receptive to fresh ideas and perspectives. Wave Makers do not abandon their objectives; instead, they remain open to how they can achieve them.
To cultivate this mindset, have faith in both your ideas and yourself. Grounded in their purpose, Wave Makers exhibit both passion and resourcefulness. Embrace this constructive confidence, allowing yourself to pursue your goals without being sidetracked by potential obstacles.
3. A changemaker is always eager to learn—even in unexpected circumstances.
Wave Makers consistently seek opportunities to deepen their understanding and insights. They pursue expertise, read extensively, listen actively, and welcome mentoring relationships. They are comfortable with embracing novel ideas, assured in their ability to acquire the knowledge they require.
As a result, Wave Makers are not deterred by uncertainty. With a proactive approach and a tendency to seek expert guidance, they can continue moving forward with their initiatives, even in the face of the unknown.
To embody the changemaker spirit, cultivate a sense of curiosity and be eager to explore. Wave Makers frequently ask “Why?” and “What if?” Make it second nature to seek understanding and apply fresh concepts to your work.
4. They engage in constructive collaboration founded on trust and authenticity.
Changemakers actively seek connections and collaboration with others towards a common objective. They recognize the importance of clearly communicating their goals and translating the meaning and intent behind their initiatives to ensure their concepts endure.
Considering this, strive not only to involve others in your mission but also to facilitate connections among those pursuing their own goals.
Creating waves is crucial for enhancing your work, your community, and your personal life. Rethink your perception of a wave—it’s more than just a disruption; it’s a positive catalyst for change. You can set this momentum in motion.
So, do you possess the essence of a Wave Maker?
