EP137: What You Need to Know about How People React to Change - A Disney-Related Case Study
CHANGE IS CONSTANT
Experiences and responses is individual. Understand that - and you will be more effective (and human!).
Enjoy!
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(The notes below are only a brief bullet point summary of what is discussed in the podcast. Be sure to listen to get all of the goodness! If you would like a full transcription of the episode, please send an email request to: angie@angie-robinson.com. We’d be happy to provide that!)
In this episode - we explore the intricate and fascinating world of change management.
Change is a constant in both personal and professional spaces, but the success of intended change is often low. This can be due to poor planning, lack of foresight, or most significantly, how humans react to change. Understanding this human element can be a game changer for leaders.
Understanding Change vs. Transition
Change is external and often immediate. It's the visible, tangible shift from one state to another – like moving from one office to another.
Transition, on the other hand, is internal. It’s the psychological process we go through as we adapt to new circumstances. Transition, as defined by William Bridges in his book *Managing Transitions*, unfolds over three stages:
1. **The Ending** – Marked by resistance, loss, and emotional upheaval.
2. **The Neutral Zone** – A phase of confusion and impatience, bridging the old and the new.
3. **New Beginnings** – Embracing the change, renewed energy, and commitment.
Disney: A Case Study in Change
During the recent 2024 D23: Disney’s Ultimate Fan Event - Disney announced several changes and additions to their massive empire. One of those changes sparked a lot of reaction from the Disney fan base and is a good case study about the complexity of the human process of transition.
This change is in relation to the Magic Kingdom at Walt Disney World. There will be two new attractions based on the Cars franchise, replacing Tom Sawyer Island and the Rivers of America. This replacement is proving to be a very big deal to many!
Key Things to Know about How Humans React to Change
Here are some of the key take-aways about how people react to change. Understanding this can also be useful in elevating the way you lead.
Change is Personal – Despite change often being positioned as “just business,” for many, it’s deeply personal. Emotional ties and individual histories play a huge role in how change is perceived and felt.
The Nature of Change Matters – When something cherished is taken away, the sense of loss can be profound. And - new additions can spark excitement and curiosity.
Thoughts and Emotions Matter – The thoughts people have about a change significantly affect their feelings and consequently their actions and outcomes.
Proximity to Change Impacts Reaction – Those who work closely with the aspects being changed will react differently than occasional visitors or distant observers.
Nostalgia and Generational Impact – Nostalgia plays a crucial role. What’s nostalgic for one generation may not be for another. Leaders must balance honoring the past while paving the way for the future.
Always remember - effective communication is paramount. Framing the change positively, being transparent, and listening to concerns can help ease the transition. As leaders, understanding the human side of change can transform how we manage transitions. Acknowledge the varied reactions, provide the right support, and guide your teams with compassion and clarity.
Change is inevitable, but with thoughtful leadership, we can navigate it more effectively.
What Do You Think?
What types of changes trigger different reactions for you? How can this help you in your leadership?
Head over to my Instagram account and send me a DM - - let me know what you come up with!
Links
Episode 29: Leading Through Change (part one)
Episode 30: Leading Through Change (part two)
Episode 113: Thriving Through Change - What Does it Mean for You?
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