The Courage to Change
Change is scary stuff. We all thrive on routines and there is great comfort in knowing that the way we do something will work and bring results for us. However, for many of us in the activity, this comfort can be a trap.
Many times in my career as a music arranger and show consultant, a director has hired me because they wanted to mix things up. They felt stuck in the rut of their process and their shows year to year are always the same. Sometimes they just needed a change, but more often they are trying to bring more success and they realize they need some fresh ideas.
This is wonderful, and I’m always excited to work with these directors and their programs. However, I’ve learned from experience that this does not always go well. Change is difficult and scary, and sometimes we think we’re ready for it when we’re not.
Now when I get these calls and have these conversations, I will take time to have a really honest heart to heart about this with this potential client. I will discuss if they are REALLY ready for this change, and will lay out for them how it might go. They will feel uncomfortable, uncertain, and will be on unsteady ground. I’ve also learned that I must do my part and be more available. In these situations I will ask that there be more check-ins, more communication, and more hand holding on my part.
One of the most frustrating things I’ve experienced in my career is to work hard to give a director a fresh new kind of show, and then find that they get uncomfortable and turn the show back into what they know. They will alter a show, sometimes without my knowledge, and make it fit the mold they know and are comfortable with. While this used to frustrate me, I now understand better how the brain works and how scary change can be.
I challenge you to consider doing some things differently. We are actually in a moment where this is being demanded, and I think it’s great for all of us. We are being forced to think outside our comfortable box. Many designers are finding it fun to take on this challenge, but others are paralyzed.
You are stronger than you know. You can be more brave than you might think. Find a support system, get your staff and members on board, and be honest and share how uncomfortable this is. But it’s less scary if we all take on the adventure together! Make it fun, lower the expectations, and see what happens.
The times in my career when I have done this have been some of the most rewarding. This worked best when I was honest with my students and brought them along on the journey. They rallied to the challenge and we held each other up as we stretched and grew. The rewards are dramatic and worth it! Be bold, try something new, and be authentic during the process. The rewards can be great.
Tim Hinton
June 4, 2021
