How can you inspire and mobilise people to thrive through change?
Would you like feedback like this after a day with your team focussed on a change?
“This has been one of the most enjoyable, thorough, well-designed, and relevant sessions I have been a part of in my 12 years at UniSA”
Many organisations are engaging with more and more change. Some is forced upon them by a changing world context and others are choosing to transform themselves to be ready for the future. But with change after change, how can you keep your team energised and committed?
If you’ve ever felt the enthusiasm of your team dwindle amidst the challenges of change, you're not alone. The question is, how can we inspire and mobilise people to not just endure change, but to thrive through it? I am a strong advocate for the transformative approach of Appreciative Inquiry (AI – not artificial intelligence! ).
Redefining Change: From Problem to Possibility
Appreciative Inquiry flips the traditional problem-solving model on its head. Instead of directing the focus towards issues and deficits, AI invites us to explore what is working well within the current system. This paradigm shift towards a solution-focused approach infuses positivity, optimism and confidence into the change process. By asking questions such as "What do we do well?" and "What are our current successes?" AI cultivates a mindset that highlights possibility and potential, rather than pessimism.
The Four D's: A Journey with Appreciative Inquiry
Appreciative Inquiry can be used solely as an alternative paradigm to the more usual problem solving methodology, or as a process as well. The heart of Appreciative Inquiry lies in its four distinct stages—Discovery, Dream, Design, and Destiny—which guide teams towards meaningful, energising transformation.
Discovery: This first stage is about identifying and appreciating the strengths and successes that currently exist. It asks, "Where is success evident now?" This is where individuals and teams recall times when they felt most vibrant and effective, grounding the change process in positive experience.
Dream: In this phase, teams envision what might be possible if the strengths and successes identified in the Discovery phase are amplified. It's an aspirational stage that opens up space for creativity and hope, asking, "What would the future look like if we were at our best?"
Design: Here, the focus shifts to creating structural and behavioural shifts needed to realise the dream. Teams collaboratively brainstorm and develop proposals for action—decisions grounded in the reality of their strengths.
Destiny: This final stage is about sustaining the momentum by committing to the journey of change. It asks how teams will remain connected and committed to the dream as they bring it into being.
Lifting Spirits Naturally
An appreciative approach not only fosters a cooperative environment but also energises by highlighting achievements and sharing success stories. When David Cooperrider first explored Appreciative Inquiry, he noted that people felt more buoyant and positive when discussing achievements rather than failures. Similarly, leaders can ignite a renewed spirit within their teams by steering conversations towards triumphs and potentials rather than shortcomings and obstacles.
Your Role: Inquiry and Participation
By embracing Appreciative Inquiry, you’re not just encouraging change; you’re inviting collaboration. The key lies in involving every team member in the journey—listening to their insights, valuing their contributions, and weaving their stories into the organisational tapestry. AI is more than just an exercise; it’s about building trust, promoting dialogue, and co-creating a future where everyone sees their role in the bigger picture.
In employing these strategies, you’re not only navigating change—you’re nurturing a culture that sees challenges as opportunities for growth and success. Engage with Appreciative Inquiry to cultivate an environment where energy and purpose shine through, empowering your organisation to flourish amid transformation.
Give me a call and I’ll shout the coffee!
This approach really works! Download a brochure for my Energising Change workshop, or please give me a call. Let’s talk.