Transformative Leadership Conversations with Winnie da Silva

The Immunity to Change with Dr. Deborah Helsing

Jun 26, 2024

Dr. Deborah Helsing, a renowned expert from Minds at Work and Harvard, dives into the Immunity to Change model, revealing how our inner fears and assumptions can block personal growth. She highlights the essential role of the limbic system in signaling threats and how neuroplasticity allows our brains to adapt. Deborah shares practical steps for mapping our immunities, challenging our beliefs through safe experiments, and leveraging coaching and peer support for effective change. This conversation is a deep dive into overcoming resistance and fostering growth.

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INSIGHT

Change Can Be Blocked By Self-Protection

Immunity to change is a protective system that blocks progress even when we sincerely want to improve.
It operates via fears and assumed losses that run under conscious intentions and keep us stuck.

INSIGHT

Fear Hijacks Reason During Change

The limbic system triggers alarm bells that hijack rational thought when change feels threatening.
Bringing the prefrontal cortex back online lets you evaluate whether those alarms are accurate or exaggerated.

ANECDOTE

Coach Feedback Revealed A Hidden Fear

Deborah used coaching feedback about being tougher to build her own immunity map and explore resistance.
She discovered a fear of being seen as "a bitch" was limiting her willingness to push back.

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In this episode, Winnie da Silva is joined by Dr. Deborah Helsing, and they discuss how the concept of Immunity to Change helps individuals uncover their resistance to change and explore their fears and assumptions. By following the steps outlined in the Immunity to Change model, individuals can challenge their assumptions, collect data, and experiment with new behaviors to overcome their resistance and achieve personal growth.

Immunity to Change Concept: The concept of Immunity to Change explores how individuals resist change due to underlying fears and assumptions, leading to a protective mechanism that hinders personal growth.
Limbic System's Role: The limbic system plays a crucial role in triggering alarm bells and emotional reactions that protect individuals from perceived threats or dangers associated with change.
Neuroplasticity and Growth: Understanding neuroplasticity highlights the brain's ability to adapt and grow, allowing individuals to challenge assumptions and explore new behaviors for personal development.
Data Collection and Analysis: Collecting data and analyzing assumptions helps individuals challenge their beliefs and behaviors, leading to a deeper understanding of their resistance to change.
Coaching and Support: Engaging in coaching sessions or seeking support from peers can provide accountability and guidance in navigating the Immunity to Change process effectively.
Asynchronous Learning: Asynchronous courses and resources offer individuals the flexibility to explore the Immunity to Change model at their own pace, allowing for self-reflection and growth.
Organizational Change: Applying the Immunity to Change model in organizational settings can help identify resistance to change within teams and facilitate a culture of growth and adaptability.
Practical Application: Implementing the Immunity to Change model involves designing experiments, collecting data, and reflecting on outcomes to challenge assumptions and foster personal and professional development.

Resources

Dr. Deborah Helsing | Minds at Work website

Book: Immunity to Change

Book: An Everyone Culture: Becoming a Deliberately Developmental Organization

The Change Course – an asynchronous Immunity to Change course

Winnie da Silva | LinkedIn