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Managing Change

Managing change can be viewed from a number of different angles, and opportunities exist all around us to learn from the experiences of others.managing change gothenburg map

I was very fortunate to be invited on a short business trip to Göteborg (Gothenburg) recently. My first visit to Sweden, I was intrigued as to how I would perceive the culture.

We landed at the airport early evening so there was still some daylight, however by the time we reached Göteborg city centre darkness had arrived.

I had no knowledge of the history of the region, but I was immediately struck by the resemblance to Amsterdam and this was reinforced by a similar warm friendliness from the people.managing change - fact 1

The city is vibrant and modern and clearly there is also an interesting past which is portrayed by the variety of buildings and the layout of the city.managing change gothenburg modern building

 

The message I was picking up was that this city has not stood still over time and that managing change is a big part of the culture and history.managing change gothenburg canal

Göteborg – A history of Managing Change

The city was founded in 1621 and the canal system was built by the Dutch. The first City Board consisted of five Dutchmen, three Swedes, two Germans and two Scotsmen and the city had, at this time, three official languages.

Göteborg was devastatemanaging change - fact 2d by no less than nine major fires between 1669 and 1804. Through this period and beyond to the present day the city has continuously re-invented itself as a port, fishing, shipbuilding, the home of Volvo cars and now as the most important commercial and industrial city in Sweden.

Göteborg has celebrated its diversity right from its founding. It appears to have accepted all that happened to it through history and continues to do so.

Managing Change – The Lessonsmanaging change - fact 3

So what are some of the lessons to be learned from Göteborg about managing change?

  • Celebrate difference and see it as opportunity to broaden your thinking
  • If something happens – it happens. Take the messages from your life experiences and turn them into strengths.
  • Be comfortable with who you are and what you are.
  • Don’t try to stand still. Change is a natural occurrence in your life.

managing change goteborg tourist link


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