1902 – Greek Archaeologist Valerios Stais Discovers the Antikythera Mechanism.
“Change leaders respect the past, their curiosity, relentless pursuit of knowledge, and creativity inspire teams to push boundaries, leaving a beneficial legacy for all”
👏 Happy Friday!
On this day, May 17, 1902, Greek archaeologist Valerios Stais discovered the Antikythera mechanism, an ancient mechanical analogue computer used to predict astronomical positions and eclipses. Stais was the first to notice an intriguing bit of bronze that looked like it might be a gear or wheels. This remarkable find captivated the minds of historians, archaeologists, and scientists alike, shedding light on the advanced technological capabilities of the ancient Greek civilization. The device, estimated to have been constructed between 150 and 100 BC, is considered one of the most significant technological achievements of the ancient world, predating modern computers by over 2,000 years. The mechanism is a complex system of gears, dials, and pointers designed to accurately predict the movements of the sun, moon, and planets, as well as the timing of lunar and solar eclipses. The device’s intricate design and precision engineering have left researchers in awe, as it demonstrates a level of technological sophistication that was previously thought to be unattainable in the ancient world. The discovery of the Antikythera mechanism has also challenged our traditional understanding of the development of technology throughout history. The device’s existence suggests that the ancient Greeks were far more technologically advanced than previously believed. Computer models based on 3-D tomography have revealed more than 30 sophisticated gears, housed in a wooden and bronze case the size of a shoebox. The Antikythera mechanism itself represents a transitional period in human history, bridging the gap between the ancient world and the dawn of modern technology.
✅ The ancient Greek engineers did not merely create a device for their own time; they envisioned a tool that would endure and continue to inform and inspire generations to come. Change leaders acknowledge that all innovation stands on the shoulders of what came before, much like the Antikythera mechanism itself, which is a product of accumulated ancient knowledge. Curiosity leads us to explore and question the status quo, leading to breakthroughs and advancements. Leaders of change relentlessly pursue knowledge, which is essential for progress; they know creativity is the spark that ignites new ideas and solutions. Change leaders inspire their teams, motivating them to strive for excellence and innovation so they push boundaries. They leave a lasting positive impact and a beneficial legacy for society and organisations. Leave a Lasting Change Leadership Legacy.
“Change leaders respect the past, their curiosity, relentless pursuit of knowledge, and creativity inspire teams to push boundaries, leaving a beneficial legacy for all”
👉 Positive change can leave a lasting legacy by unlocking human potential, driving innovation, and fostering societal progress. When organisations, people, and communities embrace transformative visions, they can unlock breakthroughs that improve lives and propel collective advancement. Successful change efforts can create new jobs, revitalise local economies, and strengthen the fabric of communities, ultimately leading to a more prosperous and equitable future. However, unsuccessful change efforts can result in significant missed opportunities for innovation, productivity growth, and social advancement. When organisations fail to effectively manage change, it can have significant ripple effects on the communities they serve. Unsuccessful transformation attempts can result in missed opportunities for innovation and productivity growth, leading to lower performance and a competitive disadvantage. Individuals affected by failed changes can experience difficulties such as unemployment, health issues, and financial instability. Additionally, resources invested in unsuccessful transformation attempts represent lost opportunities for investments that could have catalysed growth in other areas. Attention and resources diverted to unproductive initiatives can also hinder progress on alternative projects with great potential.
Final Thoughts:
Change leaders understand that their work has the power to leave a lasting, positive legacy, just as the ancient Greek engineers behind the Antikythera mechanism created a technological marvel that would influence generations to come. What change or transformation vision will you and your organisation implement to create a lasting, positive impact?
Further Reading: Change Management Charade - Leadership of Change Volume 8
Have a fantastic holiday 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®.
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Peter F Gallagher is a Change Management Global Thought Leader, Guru, Expert, International Speaker, Author and Leadership Alignment Coach.
Listed #1 by leadersHum Top 40 Change Management Gurus You Should Follow in 2022 (Mar 2022).
Ranked #1 Change Management Global Thought Leader: Top 50 Global Thought Leaders and Influencers on Change Management (2023-2022-2021-2020) by Thinkers360.
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Business Book Ranking
Change Management Behaviour - Leadership of Change® Volume 6, listed among the 50 Books from Thinkers360 Thought Leaders to read in 2022.
Change Management Adoption - Leadership of Change® Volume 5, listed among year-to-date’s (Jul 2021) most popular books on business and technology from Thinkers360 member thought leaders.
Change Management Handbook - Leadership of Change® Volume 3, listed among the 50 Business and Technology Books from Thinkers360 Thought Leaders to read in 2021.
Change Management Pocket Guide - Leadership of Change® Volume 2, ranked within the top 50 Business and Technology Books (Jan 2020) from Thinkers360 Thought Leaders.
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