Navigating Change and Embracing Loss

Leading change often means disappointing people at a pace they can handle.*

Disappointment typically stems from recognizing what needs to be left behind.

In today’s quick-fix leadership culture, we rarely allow people the time and space they need to identify, experience, and grieve these losses properly.

A leader determined to move forward at any cost risks sabotage from those around them if they don’t approach this with strong emotional intelligence.

For example, I’m working with an executive leader who needs to have difficult conversations with extended family. Before initiating these discussions, we’re focusing on increasing his emotional capacity.

In another case, I’m coaching a medical doctor transitioning from daily operations to long-term leadership development alongside his partner. While the conversation with his partner may flow naturally, helping the team adapt requires emotional agility.

Both scenarios involve moving at a pace that allows people to process and acknowledge what they need to let go of in order to step into the next season.

As a leader, you have the power to change your organization, but this requires giving people space to grieve and developing your capacity to face the future.

However, you cannot make this journey alone.

You will need a guide to help you see what you cannot see.

Reach out for a complimentary conversation.

*Marty Linsky and Ronald Heifetz