We’ve all been sold a version of “leadership” and “change” that sounds good in theory:
Stay positive. Keep people focused on the opportunity. Project confidence even when you don’t feel it.
Yuck. Blech.
One of the biggest mistakes I’ve seen people make make during change is rushing people toward the future before they have acknowledged what has ended.
Not because we are “bad” but because we are just plain busy and there is pressure to move.
The problem, I’ve learned, is that when we skip over what people are actually going through, which is the uncertainty, the loss of what used to work, the shifting roles, and all the other stuff, we actually make it worse.
Here’s the truth: you do not need to have all the answers.
During any type of organizational change, the most effective leaders lead alongside their teams.
You are going through it with them. It’s not a weakness.
It means listening, identifying what is really going on, creating connection, and helping people uncover the skills, knowledge and abilities they already have – and helping them apply that to the change in front of them.
I created this resource for leaders and teams – which means all of us 😊– who are navigating change right now.
The title says major changes — but honestly, this applies to all types.