Spring marks a new season, new growth, and vibrant colors. It also symbolizes new life in many contexts, and the longer days bring sunshine filled with Vitamin D. For me, Spring comes right when Winter has completely run its course with my energy. I’m ready for nice weather and to get outside and dig in the dirt.
Naturally, Spring brings change. Spring brings cleaning. Spring brings a fresh start to the year.
It’s no secret that change is happening in our world at an exponential pace. Technology, medical advancements, and even consumer tastes and preferences are shifting faster than ever.
And it’s also no secret—most people aren’t huge fans of change. A recent study by LinkedIn found that about one in three adults dislike change so much they avoid it if they can. Another one in three say they “give up” on change if they don’t see immediate results… and just move on to something else. Again, not a shock!
So, if the world is changing faster than ever—and we dislike change—are we doomed!?
Hardly.
We just need to recognize the season we’re in. Spring.
Spring is when it feels good to get up, get out, and enjoy the free sunshine. Vitamin D is a mood booster—and again, it’s FREE.
Spring cleaning is our chance to get rid of the extra stuff and de-clutter. Clutter is all that junk we hang on to that doesn’t serve a real purpose. Fear of change can be clutter. Worry can be clutter. Grudges can be clutter. (And, yes—half the stuff currently on my desk is clutter.) So—organize, prioritize, eliminate. It feels good. It clears your head. It’s a mood boost all on its own.
And once we de-clutter our physical and mental space, something amazing happens—we create room for growth. Just like a garden thrives when the weeds are pulled, we thrive when we clear out the distractions, habits, and thoughts that no longer serve us. That’s what Spring is all about—clearing, cultivating, and planting seeds for the future.
Whether it’s a new goal at work, a healthy habit at home, or a simple commitment to slow down and enjoy the moment, Spring gives us permission to reset. We don’t have to overhaul our entire lives in one weekend. Start with small steps. One drawer. One task. One encouraging word to someone who needs it. Momentum builds. Progress feels good.
And honestly, that’s exactly what we’ve been feeling around here at MIPS, too. Our team has been digging in—building new tools, refreshing old systems, and trying to grow in the right direction. Just like Spring, it’s a season of progress and possibility. And as we plant these seeds together—through innovation, teamwork, and a little sunshine—we’re excited to see what blooms.
So, here’s your challenge—don’t just watch the world around you bloom this season… bloom with it!
It’s Springtime—and there’s no better time to spring into action.
Derrick Niederklein is the Deputy Director of MIPS, where he leads innovative solutions for Nebraska counties through software development, mass appraisal services, and digital modernization. A visionary leader with a deep appreciation for both data and people, Derrick is passionate about building tools—and teams—that help local governments thrive. When he’s not digging into property records or project plans, he’s probably outside digging in the dirt at home, recharging with family and farm life. Derrick writes with heart and insight, blending big-picture thinking with boots-on-the-ground experience.