Toby’s brother Benji recently spent a day in our office.

Now, Toby is used to sharing his space with Benji at home, but he considers the office firmly his own territory. His initial excitement at seeing his brother was soon eclipsed by jealousy, showing off and acting out to make sure he, and he alone, was centre of attention.

It can be strange to have someone or something new in your environment. Toby was determined to keep things as they usually are, with him as top dog in the office.

However, Benji was unfazed by Toby’s attempts to show off. He was happy to share the limelight, and the staff loved him. Once Toby realised Benji wasn’t trying to take his place, but simply wanted to share the space and the attention, he calmed down to his usual happy self.

This is something we can all relate to. Whether it was when a younger sibling is born, or a new colleague starts working with you, or your old way of doing things seems to be being replaced, at some point in your life you’ll have dug your heels in and resisted a change.

More often than not, change can be good. It moves our lives forward, it advances technology and the world we live in, and it gives us the opportunity to benefit from new discoveries and information. Sticking with what’s familiar feels comfortable and safe, but it’s not always in our best interests.

Maybe in time, both Toby and Benji will be able to share the title of Morale Officer. But for now, Toby is still king of the office, and Benji is happy to be a visitor.