The difference is where the progress is found

Michael Cardus

Note the differences between any hypothetical solutions and the complaint. – Steve de Shazer – Clues pp 99

IN EARLIER POSTS I SHARE 4 USEFUL AREAS TO LOOK FOR PROGRESS CLUES OF CHANGE:

1. Change happens when it seems reasonable
2. Exception to the norm is change
3. Change through a small nudge
4. Digger deeper taints change through assumptions

Noticing what is different and putting difference to work is a task of leadership. When leaders notice what is different and are able to put difference to work they are noticing how change happens, where change matters and what difference it makes to the team.

We become myopic and solipsistic when challenged and resisted. A wonderful response that works, otherwise it would not happen. This can be a counter-intuitive. In some change efforts the idea is bad and resistance is what’s needed. As a leader being thoughtful about difference and a bad idea are a useful leadership capacity.

As you listen to the change documenting, actually writing down, differences teams and people share between the change that seems reasonable and the complaint / resistance may create enough of a landscape to make the next decision.

The difference is where the progress clues are found.