Are We Ready for Complexity or Just Speaking the Lingo?

In this ever-changing world... Just kidding! Let’s not dive into the usual buzzword bingo. Or maybe we should?

Aren’t you tired of phrases like: We live in a VUCA world, we act in disruptive environments, there’s a need for rapid adaptation, digital transformation is everywhere. We keep hearing about dynamic shifts, constant evolution, hyper-connectivity, and the next-gen digital landscape.

Excuse me, what?

What are we talking about?

I recently started participating in a coach training for teams and organizations at Coaching Center Berlin, where Guido Fiolka had us pause and take a closer look at these overused terms. Not just to nod along, but to fill them with meaning.

I’d like to pass this question on to you: What do these buzzwords really mean for you, your team, your organization?

Here are a few thoughts on what they might mean for my work as a coach and how I react. Let me share three examples.

Information Overload

One aspect of the so-called VUCA world is the explosion of information available to us, and this is as true for coaching as it is for any industry. And I love it!  It allows me to connect with interesting, ambitious people all over the world.

For individuals seeking support, though?

With countless online resources and social media posts, and everyone from consultants, retired corporate leaders to influencers calling themselves coaches, it’s become increasingly challenging to know what professional coaching really is.

So, what’s my response?

Since I began coaching, my goal was simple: to be a coach. But in light of these developments, I’ve chosen to broaden my professional role. Now, being an advocate for coaching is part of my professional identity.

Rising Consciousness

Another facet of today’s world is the rising consciousness around personal growth and human development. We’re seeking purpose within our communities, striving for fulfillment and craving deeper meaning in our work and personal lives. We aim for the so-called work-life-balance, want to show up as our true selves at work, and aspire to grow as leaders.

This shift is amazing!

I’m convinced that coaching plays an increasingly important role in society supporting people reach their personal and professional goals.

So, what does this mean for my work?

It brings a higher demand for coaching. For me, that means being crystal-clear about who I’m best suited to work with and where my approach aligns most effectively. It’s also no coincidence that my Improvisational Coaching Approach for Leaders workshop starts with a reference to VUCA!

AI Technology

AI is becoming part of everyday life, coaching included. Whether it’s streamlining admin tasks or enhancing the coaching experience, AI has potential – but it’s my job to use it wisely.

At the end of 2023, I completed my own AI coach prototype based on ChatGPT. Do I enjoy refining it? Absolutely! Will I publish it? Definitely not. It’s great to be curious, but so is acting responsibly and ethically.

And it’s not just about learning, experimenting and exploring for myself. I’m committed to educating others on how these tools can be valuable while keeping the human element at the heart of (not only) coaching.

Our Transformation

Now you’ve seen how – insert buzzword here – has transformed how I think, how I view my role, and what I do each day.

I touched on information overload, rising consciousness or AI technology. Other factors might include the geopolitical situation, demographic shifts, new regulations, emerging scientific evidence – the list goes on.

So, over to you!

What do these complex changes mean for you and your organization?

First, get clear on what this “ever-changing world” really means in your context. Then ask how genuinely “dynamic” and “adaptable” your organization is.

• Mindset: Do we really value learning, experimentation, and flexibility?
• Behavior: How well do we adjust our actions when unexpected changes happen?
• Culture: Does our team encourage bold ideas and improvisational approaches?
• Structure: Are our workflows set up to promote collaboration and creativity?

In other words: Is our organization truly equipped to handle complexity, or are we just using the language?