Embrace and Drive Change

March 14, 2013 — Floatli, Vegas, Zappos

Zappquarters

The second core value of Zappos is simple, but not so easy.  Change is never as easy as it seems.  The investment in any status quo is heavier than it appears to the naked eye.  To start something new is much easier than to destroy something old that does not work  (think Congress).  People feel that change involves admission of some kind of error, and that is why they will not enter the zone.  Being right is important to the point that it can alter the mind of the thinker significantly.  When driving change that involves others, be sure that you do not threaten their self images.  Any indication that there is a better way, also indicates that the present path is the wrong one.  Egos invest in this kind of righteous battle.  Ego battles virtually always get out of control because the individuals cannot control the egos.   It is best to show by example how change can work for the benefit of all participants.

• inventing an official  company sport is a metaphor
• defying gravity is a change most people do not consider
• sports are defined too narrowly
• everyone can win
• strength, fitness, and flexibility are just a side effect of the fun
• coaching is more effective combined with movement
• It is HOT in Vegas
• the product can make us all some bucks while helping others

We are joined at the core, Tony…..tweet me, maybe.