The first demand of transformation is vision. As I wrote previously, the most common barrier to vision is our old map. Before we can get to a new place, we must be willing to toss our old map. To make that change to we must recognize and acknowledge that it’s not leading us to our intended destination. This is harder than it sounds.

The difficulty of this step is proportional to three things:

1. The age of our map. A map we’ve used for three days is easier to alter or throw out than one we’ve followed for three decades.

2. How useful the map used to be. Sometimes a map was previously useful, but changes have occurred in where we need to be. Some maps, like faithful friends, are hard to let go.

3. The degree of difference between your old map and the new map. The prospect of letting go of the old is easier if the new is similar. When you've been using a street map, it's hard to imagine adjusting to a topographical map.

Often the greatest challenge in this phase of transformation is admitting we’ve followed (and sometimes copied and distributed!) a flawed map. It’s a grueling process that requires both humility and courage. Unfortunately, many are unwilling or unable to meet this demand. Even though they can clearly see threats and opportunities, their unwillingness to let go of the old prevents them from seeing the new.

Demand #2: Action.

The second demand of transformation is action. Surprisingly, developing vision doesn’t guarantee action. But obviously, without action nothing happens. So why is it that we develop new maps, but then fail to move?