Are fire brigades important?
Of course!
Does that mean there are no more fires?
No.
Are fire safety regulations important?
Of course!
Does that mean we no longer need a fire brigade?
Of course not.
This simple picture shows why cynicism and resignation are the worst companions in change.
Just because we have developed a strategy does not mean the transformation is complete.
Just because we have launched a change programme does not mean everything automatically improves.
Just because we have introduced new structures does not mean old patterns disappear by themselves.
Research shows that cynicism affects change initiatives on two levels — individually and organisationally. When cynical voices set the tone, they create a “cynicism to change climate” that actively undermines every transformation effort.
And yes, change is demanding. Yes, many change initiatives fail. But the answer is not resignation — it is continuous commitment.
John Kotter makes the point in his classic Leading Change: transformation is not an event, but a process. A process that can take years. A process that requires real leadership.
The fire brigade is not disbanded simply because fires still occur despite fire safety regulations. On the contrary: it stays on duty, learns and adapts.
That is exactly how successful transformation works.
💬 How do you deal with cynical voices in change processes? What has worked for you?
#ChangeManagement #Leadership #Transformation
