7.3 Stages of change
Major change in our lives and in organisations is generally associated with some form of major loss. People often react to change with anger and this is caused by a sense of loss of the old way of doing things and fear of the new. In this way, reactions to change generally go through similar phases to the grieving process. This is represented below.
Figure 8 Stages of change
- Denial Characterised by blaming others, clinging to the past, withdrawal and a reluctance to act.
- Resistance Fear, anger, victim mentality.
- Acceptance Moving beyond fear towards action, may be a lack of focus in the actions taken.
- Commitment Action is more strategic, plans are made for the future.
Activity 4
Reflect on the following. Consider the changes in your organisation or one with which you are familiar. Did all people affected by the change go through the stages identified above at the same time? If not, why not? What implications does this have for managing change?
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