“We must change, or we’re doomed.”

It’s true, but often achieves the opposite.

When leaders announce change, it often sounds like this:

“The world is changing – so we must change too. If not, we’ll be left behind.”

While well-meaning, this type of message triggers resistance.

Why?

Because it’s an unintentional morality tale (Sin number 7).

It tells people:

“You’ve been doing it wrong. I am the hero who shows the way.” (Sin number 5)

“If you don’t change, you’re the problem.”

No one wants to hear that.

And more importantly: it doesn’t work.

Let me offer you a better alternative – a simple 3-step Change Story (h/t Frances Frei & Anne Morris).

🧭 Step 1: Honor the Past

Start by reminding people what makes the organization strong. Celebrate their achievements, their resilience, their values.

This builds trust — and reminds them they can adapt successfully.

💬 “We’ve always been a company that puts people first and embraces innovation.”

📖 Step 2: Present a Compelling Change Mandate

Show that change isn’t something new or imposed –- it’s part of your DNA.

Help people see this moment as the next chapter in a story they already own.

💬 “Over the years, we’ve evolved from [X] to [Y], and each time, we came out stronger.”

🌅 Step 3: Cast a Vision of a Better Future

Now paint a picture of what’s ahead. Not as a threat, but as a shared opportunity.

💬 “Now it’s time to take the next step together. If we do, we’ll build something even more meaningful – for our people, our customers, and our future.”

That’s The Change Story.

No moralizing. No guilt-tripping. Just connection, continuity, and possibility.

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♟️ Preparing for a speech? Reach out here: https://lnkd.in/ekXvJNAe