Home Pastors Articles for Pastors How to Manage Organizational Change Well…From the New Book “Every Pastor’s First...

How to Manage Organizational Change Well…From the New Book “Every Pastor’s First 180 Days”

Empathize with Those Who May Resist and Fear Your Changes

Neuroscientists have discovered that the part of our brain directly behind our forehead helps us empathize with others, that is, step into their shoes to see life from their perspective. The process is called mentalizing. It’s one way we perceive and intuit the emotions, motivations, and intentions of others in terms of our own thoughts and feelings. Mentalizing is not mind reading. Rather, it’s an ability God has given us to perceive another’s perspectives better and imagine and interpret their needs, desires, feelings, and goals. The changes you want to bring may make total sense to you but may not to others. Seek to understand how others may perceive your proposed changes and how those changes might affect them. Questions like these can help you empathize, understand their misgivings, and, in turn, know how to address those concerns.

  •     What emotions could others be feeling about the changes?
  •     What practical concerns about the changes might they have?
  •     What do they fear they might lose with the changes?
  •     What might be their biggest objections to the changes?

 

Ask key people these questions rather than guessing how they might answer them. Try to create an environment where people feel safe to discuss change with you. When people feel safe around you, you’ll help foster the toward responses we discussed above. And when that happens, people actually become more open to organizational change.

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As a pastor for over 43 years, Charles served as a lead pastor, associate pastor, and church planter in churches from 50 to over 1,000. He now coaches and equips pastors and teams to effectively navigate the unique challenges ministry brings. By blending biblical principles with cutting-edge brain-based practices he helps them enhance their leadership abilities, elevate their preaching/ teaching skills, and prioritize self-care. He has written 7 books, earned 5 degrees (including two doctorates) has been married for 43 years, and has 3 adult children and 4 grandchildren. For more information and to follow his blogs, visit www.charlesstone.com