Ep 9 You Are a Change Leader

In this episode, we delve into the complex reality that change is inevitable in our workplaces. Whether you formally lead a team or not, developing skills to navigate change effectively makes you an invaluable asset in today's rapidly evolving environment.

Understanding the Three Dimensions of Change

• Change we choose versus change imposed upon us
• Change that feels favorable versus unfavorable
• Change we can anticipate versus change that catches us by surprise

I introduce the powerful "change bridge" metaphor that explains why executives and team members often experience the same change in completely different ways. Leaders typically start crossing this bridge months before anyone else even sees it on the horizon, creating a disconnect in understanding and emotional readiness.

The Neuroscience Behind Change Resistance

David Rock's SCARF model helps us understand how our brains naturally respond to change as potential threats:

• Status - our standing relative to others
• Certainty - our need to predict what's coming
• Autonomy - our desire to control our circumstances
• Relatedness - our connection to people around us
• Fairness - our sense of equitable treatment

Through a practical example of implementing new project management software, I demonstrate how even seemingly simple changes can trigger all five threat responses and how leaders can address each one.

The Emotional Journey of Change: SARAH Framework People experiencing significant change often move through grief-like emotions that follow this pattern:

• Shock - the initial response when change is announced
• Anger - the emotional reaction that follows shock
• Resistance - reverting to previous behaviors or subtly opposing moving forward
• Acceptance - beginning to adapt to new realities
• Hope - seeing a positive pathway forward

These stages aren't linear, and recognizing where someone is in this journey helps you respond appropriately as a leader.

Practical Takeaways for Effective Change Leadership:

• Communicate early and often, sharing the WHY behind changes
• Build in elements of choice to address people's need for autonomy
• Acknowledge emotions directly to validate experiences
• Remember that your own reaction to change sets the tone for your team

Ultimately, your ability to navigate change is perhaps the most valuable leadership skill you can develop, not about avoiding discomfort, but moving through it with awareness and intention while bringing others along with you.

Links mentioned in this episode:

• Visit clairelaughlin.com for additional resources and tools
• Connect with me on social media @ClaireLaughlinConsulting