1722, Dutch navigator J Roggeveen discovers Easter Island (Rapa Nui).

Happy Friday!

On this day, April 5, 1722, Dutch navigator Jacob Roggeveen was the first European to discover Easter Island (also called Rapa Nui) in the south-eastern Pacific. The discovery by Roggeveen and his crew aboard the Dutch West Indies Company ships, the Arend and Thienhoven, was a pivotal moment in the history of human exploration and cultural exchange.  This remote and isolated island, located in the south-eastern Pacific Ocean, had remained untouched by European influence for centuries, preserving a rich and enigmatic culture that would captivate the world. Roggeveen’s account of the island, which he named “Easter Island” in reference to the day of its discovery, provides a glimpse into the awe-inspiring sight that greeted the Dutch sailors. The island’s landscape featured numerous colossal stone statues, called moai, crafted by the native Rapa Nui people. These imposing figures, with some reaching heights of over 30 feet, have evolved into enigmatic emblems of the island’s history, captivating the global fascination of scholars and tourists. When the Dutch landed, the islanders crowded around, eager to touch the Dutch, their clothes, and their guns. A sudden shot sparked a fatal firefight, leading to the unintended death of ten or twelve islanders. The natives later sought to trade food for the remains of their deceased, and the Dutch departed soon after. The Rapa Nui people, who had inhabited the island for centuries, had developed a complex and highly sophisticated society, with a unique system of writing, intricate stone architectures, and a rich oral tradition. Roggeveen’s encounter with the island’s inhabitants marked the beginning of a long and often tumultuous history of cultural exchange and colonisation that would forever alter the course of the island’s development.

According to the ship’s official log recorded on April 6, 1722, “On the arrival of daylight, we send close in to the land two well-manned shallops, properly armed (that we may be in a state of defence in case of any hostile meeting), and show all friendliness towards the inhabitants, endeavouring to see and inquire……” Roggeveen cultivated a spirit of exploration, fostering curiosity, adaptability, and a commitment to continuous learning while not being a threat. Change leaders recognise and celebrate diverse perspectives within both society and organisations, promoting inclusivity, innovation, and respectful collaboration. They are open to the transformative power of new insights, understanding that encountering the unknown can challenge existing beliefs and paradigms. Effective communication, cultural intelligence, and a genuine interest in understanding different perspectives are essential for creating positive relationships and ensuring that change initiatives are culturally sensitive and well-received. However, change often encounters hazardous, unintended consequences. Change Leaders Must Expect Unintended Consequences.

“Change leaders cultivate a spirit of exploration, valuing diversity, adapting paradigms, and balancing exploration with respect, knowing they could encounter hazardous, unintended consequences”

Respectful change leadership fosters an environment where employees feel valued, heard, and empowered, leading to increased morale, motivation, and productivity. By prioritising respect and appreciation for employees’ contributions during times of change, respectful change leadership cultivates trust and loyalty, facilitating smoother transitions and greater organisational resilience. Respectful change leadership embodies the fundamental principle of showing admiration and appreciation for employees’ contributions within the organisation. Regardless of their position or role, employees universally crave respect, desiring acknowledgment for their skills and experiences. Even in times of organisational change, maintaining respect for departing employees is crucial, as they may serve as valuable ambassadors for the organisation in the future. Leaders should recognise that respectful treatment of employees, even those leaving due to change, can cultivate goodwill and potentially lead to future opportunities.

Further Reading: Change Management Leadership: Leadership of Change Volume 4

Have a fantastic weekend with the ones you love and care for, enjoy some fresh air, exercise, eat, drink and be happy.

Peter consults, speaks, and writes on the Leadership of Change^®. He advises CEOs on how to prepare and align their corporate leadership teams to successfully lead their organisation's change.

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