Articles by Jennifer James, PhD, Cultural Anthropologist

One of the difficult aspects of change, particularly when it is accompanied by complex technology and multiplying data sources, is the ability to give up an old story and develop a new one.

The "story" is a common sense version that folds the data into a set of ideas about "the way things ought to be." Stories are often set up as myths, history or values when they may only be organizing systems for understanding reality.

Leaders must be able to tell the "new story" if they expect their staff, constituency or client to accept their leadership or their product.

Brief Article Description

Thinking in the Future Tense Top
"Progress is the release of energy. When technology releases it forces change in the means of production and the skills of the producer. We produce more because we use both natural resources and human resources more efficiently. Technological change drives economic change, which drives citizen demographics. We require new intelligence of our workers, new skills, and new personalities. Technology, economics, and demographics changes force changes in our deepest cultural beliefs"

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16 Tips for Beating the Blues Top
"1 Make affirmations. This is a long word for a short, upbeat message that reminds you of what you want to feel. Tape them to your bathroom mirror, car, dash, desk. Write one on your hand, tuck it in you pocket or purse, pin it to your underwear, where the odd feel of it will remind you. Examples: I am lovable and capable. I cannot control the thoughts and acts of others. This too will pass. (Make up one of your own)"

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"You received rave reviews! Personally, I always enjoy your provocation and your passion."

Peg Anderson
Colorado Association of School Executives

Mighty morphin's lawmakers must respond to change Top
"Forty years ago, an entire generation thrilled to the adventures of the Lone Ranger and his faithful companion, Tonto. Today, kids like to pretend they're the Mighty Morphin' Power Rangers, while their parents wonder what happened to "Hiyo, Silver - away!" ....."

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Ready, Set, Change Top
"As the pace of change approaches warp speed, it helps greatly if you can keep an open mind and a positive attitude......"

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Envisioning the Next Century Top
"My most optimistic vision of the future of work is that many more of us will move into creative work that uses our highest skills, what Maslow called self-actualizing work ........"

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	Online Available Articles
	"Thinking in the future Tense"
	"16 Tips for Beating the Blues"
	"Mighty morphin' lawmakers must respond to change"
	"Ready, Set, Change"
	"Envisioning the Next Century"
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