

Why Leaders Keep Making Change Harder: Margaret Heffernan
9 snips Feb 26, 2025
Margaret Heffernan, author of "Uncharted" and mentor to global CEOs, dives into the complexities of organizational change. She highlights why euphemistic language can derail transformation and encourages leaders to treat their teams as capable individuals. With insights from her time in tech and a captivating case study from Pixar, she illustrates how to foster a culture of creativity and agency. Heffernan’s no-nonsense approach reveals that constant change is vital for growth, challenging leaders to embrace rather than resist it.
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Change Equals Life
- Change is a fundamental characteristic of life, as observed by James Lovelock.
- Absence of change signifies a lack of life itself.
Honest Communication
- Reframe change as a positive progression, not a loss.
- Be upfront and avoid euphemisms; honesty fosters trust.
Transparency and Respect
- Use clear language when discussing organizational change, even if it involves cost-cutting.
- Treat your employees as adults who understand the situation; honesty encourages mature responses.