People don’t resist change because they can’t see a better solution.
They resist change because they’re afraid of losing something that already works.
That’s an important distinction.
In real estate, I’ve seen teams use the same reporting processes for more than 20 years. Not because they’re unaware of newer technology, and not because they’re opposed to innovation.
But because the current process is familiar.
It’s imperfect, but it’s predictable.
This pattern reminds me of the book “Who Moved My Cheese” by Spencer Johnson.
In the story, the characters respond differently to change. One detects change early while another is quick to react. Another resists and fears change, even when it is apparent that action is required. Others are hesitant, but eventually adapt and react.
Real estate organizations often face the same challenge.
People know where the spreadsheets live.
They know which tabs need updating.
They know who to call when something breaks.
But the spreadsheet isn’t the problem.
The problem manifests when the business outgrows the process.
A portfolio doubles in size.
Investor expectations increase.
Investor relationships become more nuanced.
Reporting cycles become longer.
More people become involved.
More coordination is required.
The limitations are evident, but the prospect of change feels risky because the existing process continues to function – just not as well as it once did.
Organizations that navigate challenges most effectively aren’t necessarily the ones with the best technology.
They’re the ones that proactively recognize when the current strategy can’t scale, and take action before growth turns a manageable challenge into an operational burden.
The biggest obstacle to change is rarely the new solution.
It’s letting go of the old one.
Where is change required in your business… and are you ready, and willing to adapt?
