We know that change is constant. But what is meant by change? The Centre for Creative Leadership (CCL) states that to manage change successfully, we must first understand that there is a difference between adapting to change and transitioning to it.² 

Change is defined as situations and occurrences that impact organisations and individuals. Change creates the need to move from the way things used to be to the way they are now. This could include new ways of working and external policy changes. 

Transition is the internal psychological process of adapting to a new situation. Transition can happen quickly or slowly. It is the process of moving successfully from the old to the new. Transitioning is what happens to people as they go through change. 

A well-heeled change plan often fails, because leadership failed to take notice of the transitional requirements. Change literature clearly demonstrates that a top-down controlled approach is out-dated. It is the people element that implements successful change.

Change experts Calarco and Gurvis claim that in order to survive change in your profession, industry and organisation, you must first: “Lead yourself through the process of transition. This includes finding ways to help yourself feel more grounded, understanding the impact that change is having on you, and understanding the impact of your behaviour on others.”³

The most cited success factor in any change programme is the ability of the leader to adapt². The leader:

• Understands the requirement to adapt to external market and environmental pressures
• Appreciates the need to alter their management style to changing situations – what worked yesterday may not sustain today
• Understands the difference between change management and leadership – change management is an outside-in approach, focusing on operational and structural changes. Change leadership is people oriented; it’s inside out
• Views change as a positive, while remaining grounded in realism
• Recognises the requirement to review and revise change plans when necessary
• Explores and considers their own and other people’s concerns during any change.