Changes, changes, and more changes

Hi there, it’s Uylander.

Several years ago, when I was completing my Office Administration diploma, I attended a conference where Leachim Semaj reminded us that the world is ever-changing. During that time, technological advancements were taking place alongside the economic instability of FINSAC in Jamaica.. There is a saying, “The only constant is change.” Leachim implored us as young graduates to actively embrace change and seek out opportunities for knowledge.

Anyone alive for the past couple of years has seen many changes. In November, as we were trying to adjust to post-pandemic life, we encountered Generative AI in the form of ChatGPT, introducing us to groundbreaking technology. This new technology has everyone fearful of losing their jobs. People fear being replaced by robots as companies seek faster efficiencies. It feels like history repeating itself with all the instability and rapid changes happening around us. What can a person do to navigate these challenging times?

Know that change will occur.

Having the mindset that change is an integral part of our lives will help individuals appreciate and work through any change that arises. Nothing is permanent. Considering the four seasons of the year, it is evident that no single type of weather will remain indefinitely. Consequently, no matter how long and dreary the winters may be, we all look forward to spring, where we witness the blossoming flowers and hear the birds singing in the trees.

Anticipate change.

By anticipating change, individuals understand that it will happen. Being aware that change is bound to occur helps us avoid being caught off guard. Furthermore, by expecting transitions, we can prevent being caught unprepared. Scan the environment for current and potential future changes. Read journals and articles that focus on technological development, as they can provide valuable insights.

Prepare for change.

What steps can you take to prepare for change? Expecting change is one thing, but what position will you be in when it happens? Humans possess the capacity to think, a quality that robots lack. This is where our minds come into play, and we must engage our brains. How can you prepare for change in your field of work? What new skills will be required? How can you go about upskilling or updating your skillset? Are there any courses or programs you can undertake? Further steps to take include identifying emerging skills in your industry, taking online classes or workshops, or seeking mentorship from experts in your field.

Embrace change.

Knowing that changes will occur and anticipating them enables individuals to better position themselves for the forthcoming changes. This includes further studies, staying updated in your field, and expanding your network to make the most of any change that occurs. Change is inevitable. The sooner we adjust our mindsets, the easier it will be to embrace it. Once we are prepared, we can assume and accept possible changes. Embracing change means incorporating new technology into some aspects of our lives. There is a saying, “You can’t teach an old dog new tricks.” Unfortunately people who are afraid of change and resistant to new ways use this mindset.

Change what is in your power.

Recognize that there is something positive in every change that occurs. Whether it’s the advent of the tractor, which improved farming and made it less labor-intensive, or the computer, which enhanced human ability to perform faster and more accurate calculations than those done on a calculator. There will always be some good in the transition. How can you incorporate this change into your own life and actions? By exploring how this change can work, you will be better positioned to control things within your power.

Leverage change.

Utilize automation to your advantage. Incorporate it into your daily activities by automating repetitive tasks. Use trial and error until you find what works. Explore new tools or software. Utilize data analysis tools to improve decision-making.

The story of the Three Little Pigs comes to mind. The first pig built a house of straw, the second pig built a house of sticks, and the last pig built a house of brick. When the big bad wolf arrived, attempting to get to the pigs for his meal, he blew down the first and second houses and devoured both pigs. However, he could not blow down the third house due to its solid construction. Likewise, these big bad wolves—AI changes—will impact all of us. Ensure that you expect change, prepare for change, and embrace change, so your lives can experience minimal interruptions. By securing ourselves, we can be like the last surviving pig who evaded being eaten by the wolf.

In summary, adaptability is a characteristic of immigrants. After all, we left our homes and countries to settle in a new place. We abandoned the familiar for the unfamiliar, the known for the unknown, and safety and security for uncertainty. Adjusting is nothing new to us, whether it’s adapting to a new country, food, or culture. Let’s capitalize on what we have going for us and adapt and adjust to the latest technology that is coming our way.

This article by Her Money shows the expected impact of AI on women’s jobs. Share your thoughts on how you are preparing for or using AI in your profession.