Who Thrives in a Fast-Changing World? Those Who Can Change!

The world is changing faster than ever. Technology advances at breakneck speed, industries are disrupted overnight, and entire careers rise and fall in the blink of an eye. In such an unpredictable environment, one question matters more than ever: Who is truly valuable in a fast-changing world?

The answer is simple: people who can change.

The Danger of Being Stuck in the Past

Throughout history, those who failed to adapt have been left behind. Think about industries that refused to evolve—Blockbuster dismissing Netflix, Kodak ignoring digital photography, entire professions vanishing because they couldn’t keep up. Organizations that resist change crumble. Individuals who refuse to adapt become obsolete.

In contrast, those who embrace change don’t just survive—they thrive. They create new industries, lead teams to success, and shape the future instead of being victims of it.

The Internet’s Role in Change—For Better or Worse

The internet has accelerated the pace of change, but it has also created echo chambers that make change harder for many people. We used to live in geographic communities where we had to interact with a variety of people—different ages, backgrounds, and viewpoints. This exposure naturally forced us to grow, adapt, and challenge our own perspectives.

Today, the internet allows people to sort themselves by interests rather than location. This means we increasingly surround ourselves with like-minded individuals, reinforcing our existing beliefs and making change feel unnecessary—or even threatening. People can now live in digital bubbles where their views are never challenged, making them resistant to new ideas and unable to pivot when reality demands it.

This is a dangerous mindset in a world that requires adaptability. The ability to change isn’t just an asset—it’s a necessity.

The Cost of a Fixed Mindset

When people get stuck in rigid ways of thinking, they make poor decisions. Conspiracy theories spread unchecked. Outdated business practices persist long past their usefulness. People cling to the familiar, even when it’s no longer effective.

Julian Mather saw this firsthand at a National UFO convention in Brisbane. As a journalist, he went in expecting to meet people with compelling (if unusual) perspectives. Instead, he found a room full of individuals clinging desperately to ideas that isolated them from reality. Many prefaced their arguments with, "No one will listen to me." Their unwillingness to entertain new perspectives had trapped them in an intellectual dead end.

One man, seemingly rational and well-spoken, claimed to have spent a decade measuring UFO activity around Brisbane. He invited Julian and his team to his home to see his research. But when they arrived, they found a house in disrepair—overgrown lawn, stacks of uncollected newspapers, blacked-out windows. Inside, the so-called "UFO detector" was nothing more than a piece of fence paling, a battery, some wires, and a compass. A decade of research based on a flawed premise, clung to with absolute certainty.

This story isn’t just about UFOs. It’s a metaphor for anyone who refuses to evolve. Whether in business, leadership, or personal growth, the cost of a fixed mindset is wasted time, lost opportunities, and a shrinking relevance in the world.

Change is a Skill You Can Build

The good news? Adaptability isn’t a personality trait—it’s a skill. And like any skill, it can be developed.

1. Challenge Your Own Thinking

Expose yourself to different viewpoints. Read books that contradict your beliefs. Talk to people outside your industry. Seek out information that makes you uncomfortable.

2. Develop a Bias for Action

The best way to adapt is to take action. Experiment, test new ideas, and be willing to fail. The faster you try, the faster you learn.

3. Surround Yourself with Growth-Minded People

Seek out those who are always learning and evolving. Join communities that challenge you. Avoid echo chambers that reinforce the status quo.

4. Adopt a ‘Future-Ready’ Mindset

Instead of resisting change, ask: “What’s next?” The world will keep evolving—position yourself to evolve with it.

The Future Belongs to the Adaptable

In a fast-changing world, the most valuable people are those who can change. They are the ones who stay relevant, lead teams, and turn uncertainty into opportunity.

The question is: Will you be one of them?

If your team or organization needs help building a change-ready culture, let’s talk. Julian Mather’s CHANGEABILITY keynote is designed to help leaders and teams navigate change with confidence. Reach out today to book Julian for your next event.