I recently finished reading the book “Switch”. This book discusses how people change and gives an amazingly simple insight to what happens as people try to make changes in their lives. Whether its a new job, helping a team achieve new heights, having a child or whipping yourself back into shape, Switch is probably the most applicable book about change I have ever read.
Switch uses a simple analogy to explain the factors involved with change. Everybody thinks two different ways, one is rational and the other is emotional. The analogy they used in the book is an elephant and a rider. The rider represents the rational mind and the elephant represents emotion.
Rationally, using our rider, everyone wants to get in shape, but emotionally we want a cookie. The rider may want to stay on track and get to his destination, but if the 6 ton elephant decides to take a break, the little rider doesn’t have much choice.
Pretty simple, right?
It’s an interesting battle. Both the rider and the elephant have strengths and weaknesses. The book walks us through the characteristics of each character and how the two interact.
This simple analogy works in all types of change and can be a funny reminder as you make decisions or get off track. It has become an ongoing joke at the gym, when a client or trainer falls off the wagon.
“Your elephant’s kicking your ass, huh?”
This light hearted analogy is simple to remember, easy to explain and is a simple way to understand the things we need to address when applying new habits and changes in our lives.
So, if you own a company, manage a team, coach a sport, are married, have kids or are just looking to transform your own life, I would highly recommend picking up a copy and studying it. It is packed full of amazing information and stories that will help you immensely!
You can check out the website here:
Heath Brothers