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Writer's pictureKerrie Smit

Embracing a Change Leadership Mindset

There's currently much pressure on our organisational leaders, with global economic strain, new modes of business, changing expectations from customers, conflict and unrest affecting markets, and rapid technology adoption - not least of which is the non-stop upscaling we're seeing in AI technologies. As leaders, it's crucial to navigate these changes with a strategic mindset that fosters growth and progress. Change leadership requires a shift in perspectives, often challenging traditional norms and pushing boundaries. Change management has always relied on strong leadership, so let's explore some of the nuances of leadership and the power of mindset in driving organisational success.


What has Embracing Change Leadership Mindset to do with Change Management?

Change management is more than just implementing new processes or systems; it involves nurturing a culture that embraces evolution and innovation. Leaders play a pivotal role in this process, serving as the driving force behind transformative initiatives. By understanding the intricacies of change management, leaders can steer their organisations toward sustainable growth and resilience.


I'm regularly hearing from clients that there are still serious misunderstandings about change management in the market, resulting in disparities between what we know works, and we're actually tasked to do. This is where a strong leader - with a growth mindset - makes all the difference.


The Power of Leadership in Change

Effective leadership is synonymous with change leadership. Leaders must inspire, motivate, and guide their teams through periods of transition and uncertainty. A growth mindset, characterised by a belief in continuous learning and improvement, is essential for effective change leadership. In contrast, a fixed mindset, rooted in the belief that we can't really learn or grow, builds resistance to change, and can hinder progress and innovation.


Leaders who embrace a change leadership mindset are open to new ideas, adaptable to shifts, and resilient in the face of challenges. By fostering a culture of learning and agility, these leaders propel their organisations forward, driving innovation and achieving long-term success.


Change Leadership Mindset

Change is the only constant in life.

Constant change encapsulates the essence of a change leadership mindset. Embracing change, rather than fearing it, is key to unlocking new opportunities and staying ahead of the competition. Leaders who champion a growth mindset inspire their teams to embrace challenges as stepping stones to growth and progress.

A team board showing concepts and drawings of growth

A growth mindset is not just a concept; it's a guiding principle that defines how leaders navigate change. By embracing a proactive and forward-thinking approach to change management, leaders empower their teams to adapt, evolve, and thrive.


Carol Dweck’s Growth Mindset Theory distinguishes between two mindsets: fixed and growth. Those with a fixed mindset view intelligence as innate and unchangeable from birth. They believe that their qualities are “set in stone.” By contrast, individuals with a growth mindset believe that intelligence is flexible and can be developed through effort, learning, and practice. This can assist leaders to see failure as an opportunity for growth and to embrace challenges as a chance to improve.

A growth mindset contributes to motivation, learning, and personal development.     

Growing interest in the Growth Mindset

We've observed a growing interest in Dweck's theory and its implications for change management strategies and leadership development. This gives us hope that a change leadership mindset is more than just a buzzword. The challenges our leaders must face today are complex, and a growth mindset will guide leaders toward sustainable change and success. By promoting a culture of agility, adaptability, and continuous improvement in their teams leaders can harness the power of change to drive organisational excellence.


In the hands of a skilled leader with a growth mindset, change can be the catalyst for so many wonderful things, including innovation and transformation. There is no easy way to predict the future - the only way I've ever seen is to have a goal, learn skills, take action and to create it.


To find out more about cultivating a growth mindset for change leadership, grab us for a chat.



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