As a business leader, you understand that the phrase ‘But we’ve always done it this way’ symbolises a mindset that clings to familiarity, even when certain ways of doing things are well past their use-by date. With the rise of AI, the words holding people back have changed. Today, the refrain has become, ‘But we’ve never done it this way.’ This shift reveals a deeper, more pervasive challenge—fear of change itself.
The Evolution of Progress-Blocking Mindsets
Historically, leaders and teams have blocked progress by clinging to processes and systems that felt safe, even when their effectiveness waned. Today, the challenge has shifted. Businesses are increasingly aware of the need for innovation, yet hesitation persists—rooted not in holding onto the past, but in uncertainty about the future.
The thinking that informs ‘But we’ve never done it this way’ reflects this shift. It’s no longer about protecting the status quo but about grappling with the risks and unknowns involved in trying something new. However, organisations that embrace innovation with AI are increasingly discovering ways to unlock value and gain a competitive edge.
Why ‘But We’ve Never Done It This Way’ Is More Dangerous
At first glance, ‘But we’ve never done it this way’ might seem like a pragmatic approach—after all, looking before you leap is a good thing, right? In reality, this mindset can stall progress and lead to missed opportunities.
Here’s why it’s problematic:
- It masquerades as caution: A preference for proven methods can feel safe, but it often prevents experimentation that leads to breakthroughs.
- It limits adaptability: In rapidly evolving markets, hesitating to try new approaches can leave businesses falling behind competitors who welcome change.
- It creates inertia: The reluctance to embrace change fosters a cycle of stagnation, where innovative ideas are dismissed before they’re explored.
This barrier can be hard to identify and overcome because it feels logical—but it’s also holding businesses back from growth.
The Hidden Costs of Staying Stuck
Fear of change has consequences:
- Missed Opportunities: Competitors willing to experiment gain an edge by capitalising on emerging trends.
- Stagnation: Businesses that resist change struggle to evolve and remain competitive, as AI rapidly transforms industries, enabling businesses to revolutionise processes and remain ahead of the curve.
- Weakened Team Morale: Employees thrive in environments that encourage innovation, and stagnation can lead to disengagement.
The cost of staying still is far greater than the risk of moving forward. For businesses, the greatest danger lies in resisting progress.
Reframing the Fear of Change
How can businesses overcome this barrier? By reframing fear as an opportunity for growth.
- Start Small:
Pilot a single idea or tool in a low-stakes environment. For example, experimenting with SEO services or AI-powered customer management tools can reveal opportunities without significant upfront investment. - Shift the Narrative:
Replace ‘What if it doesn’t work?’ with ‘What if it does?’ Encourage your team to embrace failure as part of the learning process. - Focus on Outcomes:
Keep the benefits of change front and centre—whether it’s saving time, driving growth, or streamlining social media management. - Lead by Example:
Show your willingness to embrace the unknown, demonstrating confidence in trying new approaches.
How AI Challenges ‘But We’ve Never Done It This Way’
AI is a prime example of innovation that meets resistance due to fear of the unknown. Many business leaders hesitate to adopt AI, assuming it’s complex, costly, or incompatible with their current systems.
But the reality is that AI doesn’t replace what works—it enhances it. By simplifying workflows, optimising operations, and enabling smarter decision-making, AI empowers businesses to operate more efficiently and effectively.
Overcoming the fear of ‘We’ve never done it this way’ starts with understanding that AI isn’t a leap into the unknown—it’s a step towards amplifying what already makes your business successful.
Break the Cycle, Embrace the Future
The words may have changed, but the impact remains the same: a mindset that resists change will always block progress. As a leader, your role is to push through that resistance and empower your team to embrace innovation with curiosity and confidence. Whether it’s adopting AI, enhancing workflows, or rethinking a long-held process, the key to thriving in today’s business landscape is to take the first step into the unfamiliar.
It’s time to rewrite the narrative. Let’s move beyond ‘But we’ve never done it this way’ and open the door to new possibilities.
Join AI for Decision-Makers: Simplify Systems, Amplify Outcomes
Ready to turn resistance into results? This hands-on course is designed to help business leaders overcome the fear of change, harness the power of AI, and drive meaningful growth.
With practical tools, actionable insights, and a supportive learning environment, this programme will show you how to simplify workflows, enhance decision-making, and future-proof your business.
Reserve your spot today and lead your business confidently into the future.