Principles of transformation
Our experience in the field of transformation has revealed certain truths that guide our work. We have distilled these truths into our principles of transformation.
Transformations can neither be controlled nor fully understood, but they can be shaped
The same applies to any organization, for two reasons:
- Any transformation or organization is a web of interconnected-but-independent dynamics.
- Human cognition is subject to conditioning and biases, and we can only perceive and understand a fraction of what happens.
Shaping transformations means dealing with the unknown – and with uncertainty
The decisions made during a transformation are always based on an inadequate knowledge base and are therefore a matter of weighing probabilities. The quality of decisions (and, as a result, the quality of the transformation) depends on the level of awareness of those making the decisions, and the process they follow.
Everything is alive and unique, and therefore needs to be treated as such
Blueprints and best practices can serve as starting points to create change, but applying them wholesale only causes harm. Each challenging situation is unique and requires a distinct approach. By fully accepting and embracing the situation, and by opening up to the infinite intelligence that we are all embedded within, one can find the appropriate solution.
Leadership is central and self-leadership is paramount
Amidst uncertainty, we need to decide and act; therefore, we need to lead. Failing to lead means allowing old principles, dynamics, and paradigms to dictate the situation. To lead, we must constantly examine how we perceive, understand, and act in the world. We must see how our biases influence our impact, and then change and transform according to what the situation demands – this is self leadership.
Every transformation is governed by underlying dynamics, paradigms, and principles
To understand a situation, one must grasp the principles of the human-made paradigms that underpin it. To change a situation, one must alter the paradigms. Although these principles are constructs—such as money, or the belief that infinite economic growth is possible—they are often perceived as given. Every successful change must consider this perspective.
We have co-created the challenges we face, and we cannot solve them on our own
Humankind has a huge impact on nature and, in turn, on our livelihood. That doesn’t mean that we as humans are fully able to solve the problems we face. The belief that humankind can control and shape nature without consequences is problematic. We need to acknowledge our own limitations, surrender to the infinite intelligence in which we are embedded, and play an active part.
