Your change strategy hits a roadblock. How can you pivot and still achieve success?

When we change strategy encounters a roadblock, consider reframing the obstacle as an opportunity for innovation rather than just a setback. Engage our team in a creative problem-solving session where unconventional ideas are encouraged, and the focus shifts from simply overcoming the roadblock to potentially redefining the strategy itself. Additionally, revisit our initial assumptions and gather real-time data to understand if external conditions or internal dynamics have shifted since the strategy was first conceived. This can reveal new pathways or alternative goals that might better align with the current environment. By adopting an agile mindset, we transform the challenge into a catalyst for achieving success in unexpected ways.

When my change strategy encounters a roadblock, I first analyze the situation to understand the root cause of the obstacle. Based on this assessment, I develop alternative approaches, considering different perspectives and potential solutions that align with the overall objectives. I then communicate the revised strategy to all stakeholders, ensuring buy-in and support, while remaining flexible and ready to make further adjustments as needed to achieve success.

Oh, a roadblock, how original! Time to summon the Change Strategy GPS: Recalculating... Turn left at "Panic," continue straight past "Denial," and take the next right at "Desperate Creativity." Ignore the "Abandon All Hope" sign—it's just there for dramatic effect. When in doubt, throw in some jazz hands and declare, "This was the plan all along!" Success, here we come!

Change is rarely a smooth journey, and roadblocks are often an inevitable part of the process. When facing resistance, I emphasize that building trust and changing behaviors takes time. By consistently reiterating this message and addressing the root causes of resistance, we can navigate challenges more effectively. I find that understanding why people resist change is crucial in finding solutions. Having alternative approaches ready can also help the change management team pivot and stay on track.

Normally different stakeholders will perceive the obstacles with different perspectives and priorities. It is important to put ourselves in the other's shoes and really try and understand where they are coming from and what their goals are. Most times we can adjust ours and other's perception of the problems, and every single time we can use time more wisely. They count in excess of 800 cognitive biases at this hour, and we can use those hardwired mechanisms to tweak perception to find a resolution.