The Tortoise’s Edge: Why Radical Reform is the Enemy of Real Change1. Introduction: The High Cost of HasteIn the modern executive suite, the fallacy persists that the velocity of a transformation initiative is a direct proxy for its efficacy. This mindset precipitates the launch of multiple, uncoordinated "urgent" programs that inevitably collide, resulting in profound "initiative fatigue." While these shifts are born of a desire for progress, the strategic imperative is to recognize that the fastest route to systemic change is often a calculated deceleration. By adhering to Robert Greene’s Law 45—preaching the need for change while eschewing excessive reform—leaders can navigate the volatile space between stagnation and chaos.2. Takeaway 1: Change is a Psychological Threat, Not Just a ProcessThe executive fallacy lies in equating rapid-fire execution with seriousness. However, behavioral science confirms that abrupt organizational shifts trigger an amygdala-based threat response. Employees perceive radical reform not as a strategic evolution, but as an existential threat to their stability. When psychological safety is sacrificed at the altar of speed, the workforce shifts from a state of innovation to one of self-preservation.Leaders who prioritize speed over behavioral anchoring inadvertently manufacture the very resistance they intend to dismantle. As Robert Greene observes:"People are resistant to change, so when introducing new ideas, make sure to ease them in gradually. Overwhelming others with drastic reforms creates fear and resistance." Resources: The Continuous Improvement Lab: https://www.karassinnovations.com/blog Books: Shift Happens - How To Lead with Purpose and Discipline Every Day: https://a.co/d/0JZ8auW; Culture by Design, Power by Discipline- Volume 1: https://a.co/d/ 7v5fy4f; Culture by Design, Power by Discipline- Volume 2: https://a.co/d/40yArAb Sponsored by Crunch Time Gourmet Popcorn & Apples (Bridgeport, WV): gourmet popcorn + caramel apples made with small-batch homemade caramel. Shop: https://crunchtimewv.com Subscribe for more insights: https://open.spotify.com/show/6MqoJ1aZM1VA5cgeWvjlnX?si=86901c0534b14403 https://open.spotify.com/show/3YqjoH6AZg7AdDYHyCwDY0?si=ecc12289b5e84f29 Connect with Us: Website: https://www.karassinnovations.com LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/lenierjohnson Meta:https://www.facebook.com/share/1AZorbNg72/?mibextid=wwXIfr Substack: https://karassinnovations.substack.com Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/karassinnovations.bsky.social YouTube: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLDm1_im2u-gpFsTARP71ec11C2Z8xbEGV&si=4e6_5rdfoQIiT1Gu #ContinuousImprovement,#Podcast,#ProcessExcellence,#Leadership,#Lean,#SixSigma,#TheContinuousImprovementLab,#TheSystemThinkerShow,#MOS #Management Operating Systems,#Project2025,#Sludge,#scottgalloway,#karaswisher,#AnthonyScaramucci,#McKinsey, #Gallup, #Deloitte, #StevenBartlett,#petersenge,#KurtLewin,#JohnKotter, #RosabethMossKanter,#DarylConner
