5 common pitfalls for change-makers

No matter the organization, brave employees trying to advance good ideas are susceptible to making several common errors. Here are the top pitfalls for you to avoid if you’re a rebel at work trying to break through.

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1. FAILING TO PRIORITIZE YOUR IDEAS: When you constantly suggest ideas, you risk diluting your impact. Choose the one or two suggestions you have that are most relevant for the organization and stand the best chance for implementation.

2. GOING SOLO: If you have an impulse to go it alone, temper your ego by working with others to advance your ideas. Be prepared to relinquish ownership of your idea so a broader group can implement the change.

3. FLUNKING THE PITCH MEETING: You only need to pitch three things: what’s at stake, what will be different if the idea is adopted and assurance that the proposed idea is likely to work. Rather than spending 45 minutes presenting and leaving 15 minutes for questions, flip it. Give a tight, 15-minute presentation and then discuss the idea for 45 minutes.

4. GIVING UP TOO SOON: Setting small goals and appreciating small wins will help prevent you from giving up too soon.

5. IGNORING PERSONAL DANGER SIGNALS: Increasing your resiliency is crucial for your success. Be attuned to signs that you’re feeling negative and take action to improve your mood: Appreciate what’s working, spend time with good friends, become more mindful, keep a journal, eat well. These practices will help you see the good in your organization even on frustrating days