Change Is The Fire That Helps Ideas Emerge

When fires ravaged Yellowstone National Park in 1988, great minds from all over the science and environmental communities were ignited with concern. We had, according to them witness one of the greatest natural disasters in history. An event that had blotted out thousands of years of nature’s most perfect trophies and laid them waste with only an eerie billow of smoke to mark their black graves.

Not long after they dried their tears, these experts began to take notice of the smaller events emerging. Suddenly the real truth began to manifest itself in the ashes. There, beneath the warm, soft layer of charred monoliths they discovered tiny plants pushing eagerly through to the light. What was so amazing about these sprouts is that they came from seeds dormant for eons. In fact, the heat of the fire as well as the opportunity to reach the sun was the reason for their emergence. Finally, these small voices found their solo opportunity in a symphony that had never experienced a pause, until now.

During many of my training seminars and subsequent round table discussion I talk a lot about perceived limitations and old ideas we can’t let go of. We agreed that our belief window limits our sights, no matter how sophisticated our processes. I also find, when confronted with change that FEAR seems to permeate our common sense. We use it as a reason to feel disconnected from the very people we are there to advise. But if we take a lesson from nature we see that when we eliminate the clutter of our old beliefs, (our old trees if you will) that there are new, fresh, strong ideas and events that can bring new life to our business.

An even higher concept is the idea that a brand strategy can be the fire to clear away the clutter. With a clear message to guide you the sun can reach those customers who are looking for the light and a clear path to your door. This is another reason the concepts of connecting, solving, learning, advising and fulfilling are more congruent with the human element you’re hoping to nurture.

So when you feel you don’t want to let go of the old ways, just remember that soon you’ll see your seedlings, that have been dormant, come to life and you will have your moment in the sun.

Camine Pappas on Brand Strategy
C & Company