Change Signal cover image

Change Signal

The High School Secret to Org Change: Katy Milkman

Feb 12, 2025
Katy Milkman, a Wharton professor and author of "How to Change," dives deep into the psychology of behavior change. She highlights that 40% of premature deaths result from choices we can control, offering insights on improving decision-making. Katy emphasizes the power of 'fresh start' moments and the importance of engaging the 'movable middle' in organizations to drive transformation. She also debunks the myth of positive visualization, advocating for pre-mortems to predict challenges instead. A fresh look at change management!
24:45

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Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

  • Leveraging fresh starts, such as new years or jobs, can significantly boost motivation and engagement for organizational change initiatives.
  • Behavioral change requires a diagnostic approach to tailor strategies addressing individual obstacles, moving beyond one-size-fits-all solutions.

Deep dives

The Dual Aspects of Change Management

Change management operates on two essential levels: structural adjustments within an organization and the behavioral changes of individuals. Structural change focuses on transforming the organization itself, while behavioral change emphasizes altering personal habits and actions. Both types of change encounter significant challenges due to the strong influence of the status quo, making it difficult for individuals to adapt even when they desire to. Understanding this duality is crucial for effective change management, as each type requires different strategies and approaches to facilitate success.

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