4 Qs - Envisioning the Future of Change

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We’re in a series about perspectives on change and how they can help us be effective change leaders. Here are our previous topics:

• The Satir J Curve, a model that illustrates our journey through change.

• Holding Change Too Tight

• Feeling Pain Sparks Change

Quintessential Thought

In our last 4Q’s newsletter, we discussed the importance of clearly outlining the problems a change aims to solve. But simply highlighting pain points isn't enough to ensure lasting change.

Pointing out the current problem only tells people what to move away from. We still need to answer the next critical change question: Where are we going?

Imagine what things will look like after the change. To paint this picture, we can leverage the same two perspectives we used to identify the initial pain points:

• Storytelling: Craft vivid imagery that brings the future state to life. Verbally paint a picture of how things will be different and improved.

• Data: Identify key measures that demonstrate the change's impact. What will increase, decrease, or remain constant?

Here's the key: When communicating this vision, embrace questions!  They're a sign of engagement and indicate a positive energy for the change we're aiming for.

Quotes

“Where there is no vision, there is no hope.” - George Washington Carver

“In order to carry a positive action we must develop here a positive vision.” - Dalai Lama

“Vision is the art of seeing what is invisible to others.” - Jonathan Swift

Quick Step

For a current change initiative, ask a few people what the vision is - how things will look after and what measures will indicate it’s successful. See what is “sticking” with people and what’s getting muddled.

Question

What stories and data do you currently have that could support the positive impact of the change you’re leading?

Applying Professional Scrum, June 10-13

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