Change is constant in our careers, personal lives or the world around us. To thrive, we must learn to navigate it effectively. Yet, for most of us, change brings discomfort, uncertainty and even fear. So, how can we take control and lead ourselves through the inevitable shifts that come our way? How can we lead others through change successfully? 

Here are five practical steps to lead yourself through change:

1. Acknowledge the Change

Change is inevitable, necessary and often an opportunity for growth. Instead of resisting it, recognize its importance and remind yourself that adaptability is a strength. 

2. Manage Your Doubts and Concerns

Uncertainty can fuel anxiety, but clarity reduces fear. Ask yourself, “Do I understand the ‘why’ behind the change?” If you have concerns, talk to your boss or a trusted advisor. 

3. Shift to a Positive Mindset

Reframing change as a learning opportunity can make all the difference. Instead of focusing on the disruption, ask: “What new skills, perspectives or experiences can this bring?” 

4. Manage Your Stress

Navigating change requires mental and physical resilience. Prioritize self care and ensure that you exercise, eat foods that fuel your body, get a good night’s sleep and practice mindfulness. 

5. Communicate & Stay Engaged

Change can feel isolating, but open communication builds trust and understanding. Stay informed by listening, sharing your thoughts and experiences, and seeking updates on the transition. 

Now that we’ve learned to lead ourselves through change, let’s learn how to lead others through change using the CHANGER framework. 

1. Create and Share a Vision

A clear vision helps others understand the “why” behind the change. Without it, people feel lost, unsure of where things are headed. Your vision should:

• Be compelling and easy to understand.
• Answer WIIFM (What’s In It For Me?).
• Show how today’s changes support the future.

2. Have a Plan to Guide the Change

Change without a plan leads to confusion and resistance. A solid plan should include:

• Impacted individuals.
• Key stakeholders and change champions.
• A timeline, milestones and clear expectations.
• Metrics for success.

3. Assess Needs & Provide Training

Many change efforts fail because others don’t feel equipped to succeed in the new environment. Assess what skills and knowledge gaps exist and provide the information needed.

4. Nurture and Engage Others

People don’t resist change; they resist being changed. Engage them in the change by:

• Encouraging participation in decision making.
• Listening to concerns and addressing them openly.
• Helping employees focus on what they can control, not what they can’t.

5. Get a Handle on Your Emotions

Leaders set the tone for how others respond to change. If you’re overwhelmed, fearful or resistant yourself, others will pick up on that.

6. Extend Empathy

Change is hard. People experience fear, stress and even grief over losing the familiar. As a leader, you should validate emotions, not dismiss them.

7. Reinforce the Change and Make It Part of the Culture

To make a change stick, you must:

• Model the change yourself.
• Align incentives and performance measures with the new direction.
• Celebrate both short- and long-term wins.
  

Effectively managing change is essential to both your success and the success of those you lead. Use these strategies to navigate change with confidence.