Why is change difficult – and how to succeed?

Change is a constant in life and work, but implementing it is often more challenging than we imagine. Why do so many change efforts fail, even when we understand their necessity and have clear goals? Often, it’s because change is much more than adopting a new way of working – it’s a journey that requires rethinking and adapting.

A technical problem or an adaptive challenge?

Researcher Robert Kegan and his colleagues found that most changes fail not because people don’t want to change, but because alongside change, they also want to preserve something old. This is an example of an adaptive challenge.

Technical problem:

• The solution is known and can be implemented by an expert.
• Example: Updating an IT system or performing surgery on a broken leg.

Adaptive challenge:

• The solution cannot be outsourced; it requires learning, mindset shifts, and often dealing with uncertainty.
• Example: Improving workplace culture or recovering from surgery.

Keys to successful change

For a change process to succeed, an organization must identify which challenges are technical and which are adaptive. Here are some practical tips for leading successful change:

1. Distinguish between technical and adaptive components:
   Technical problems often have ready-made solutions, while adaptive challenges require learning and adaptation.
2. Create a safe learning environment:
   Since adaptive challenges involve experimentation and failures, psychological safety is key.
3. Engage and involve everyone:
   People are more motivated when they understand the importance of change and their role in making it happen.
4. Communicate continuously:
   Open communication helps reduce uncertainty and build trust.

Towards sustainable change

Change isn’t just a project plan or a checklist – it’s a process that takes time, commitment, and flexibility. We help organizations identify and address both the technical and adaptive aspects of change. Together, we can build sustainable change that strengthens your organization’s future.

Contact us, and let’s plan your change journey!

For further insights, read Juho Nenonen's original article on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/miksi-organisaatiomuutokset-ep%C3%A4onnistuvat-tunnista-ongelma-nenonen-1tgvf/?trackingId=f2ZMhTtJRxqmUtlRvyWOKw%3D%3D