People spend a lifetime developing their beliefs about how things are supposed to be. Then, every once in a while, along comes an ‘expert’ who tells them they know a better way. The expert might even preach how much better things would be if they would only do x-y-z.

Such recommendations often don’t address the fears, beliefs, and anxiety of those charged with doing x-y-z. No process will override what people believe or fear. Simply put, success or failure is about the people and only the people.

The next time you’re introducing change, start by talking to the people. Ask them powerful questions to get them talking about what they believe and fear. Then keep the conversation going as new challenges emerge.

You’ve got this.