Small change: get real

First published on
Nov 21, 2023
we’re dodging difficult conversations
Writing Small Change Communicating clearly Culture in companies Difficult conversations Getting change done High performing teams Leadership development 2023

The Stockdale Paradox is one of the most powerful concepts in business (and indeed in life).

It suggests that, when we are faced with seemingly insurmountable difficulty, our endurance relies on our ability to do two things at once. The first is to look at our problems unflinchingly, facing their full horror however difficult doing so might be. The second is to remain optimistic that our circumstances can and will improve. (The paradox, of course, is that one behaviour should preclude the other.)

When change feels challenging — or even beyond challenging — embracing the Stockdale Paradox can help each of us find the resourcefulness to plough ahead. The alternative is denial or despair, neither of which serve any leader.

Something to consider: where might embracing the Stockdale Paradox help me right now?

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