Seth has come up with another great post. I love change and think his thoughts on how different people view change are right on. I never thought about it this way – but way simpler than lots of other suggestions. And I will forgive the sports analogy.

For nonprofit organizations and fundraisers – I think this is an easy take away and something to think about when we’re in a meeting “talking” about change. Who’s on D and O? How can we work together to win the game – which is focused on our mission, donor centered work, community and people. You can’t play on a team as a loner….pick a side and plan to collaborate.

Consider the difference between “offense” and “defense” when confronting a new idea.

The person who is playing offense wants to get ahead. Grow market share. Get promoted. She wants to bring in new ideas, help more customers, teach the people around her. Change is an opportunity to further the agenda, change is a chance to reshuffle the deck.

The person who is playing defense, though, wants to be sure not to disappoint the boss. Not to drop a ball, break what’s working or be on the spot for something that didn’t happen.

I am usually on Team Offense but have great respect for those on Defense. How about you?