Leadership Insight
Why do most organizational changes fail after the kickoff meeting?
We underestimate the power of equilibrium.Whether it's an individual trying to build a new habit or an entire organization trying to shift its culture, the human tendency is always to return to the baseline.
Even when we know we need the change, we inherently resist the sustained effort it takes to get there. If you want to lead real change, you have to manage the equilibrium.
1
Expect the snap-back
When your team reverts to old habits, it’s not defiance. It’s human nature trying to conserve energy. Don't get frustrated; get focused.
2
Apply sustained effort
Kickoffs are easy. Consistency is hard. You have to reinforce the new behavior long past the point where it feels repetitive.
3
Redefine the baseline
The goal isn't just to do something new for a week. The goal is to sustain the effort until the new habit becomes the default equilibrium.
True leadership is guiding people through the exhaustion of change until they arrive at a new normal.
Drop a note in the comments below if you’ve felt the pull of equilibrium this week!