As we approach the close of 2024, I find myself reflecting on the extraordinary turbulence we’ve witnessed this year. From advancements in AI to shifting global markets, the environment around us is evolving faster than ever before. The hallmark of this era is no longer change itself—that has always been with us—but the uncertainty accompanying it and the sheer pace at which it occurs. Historically, organizations have been built to manage through incremental change. Systems, structures, and processes were optimized for stability and predictability, mirroring the industrial age they were born into. But today, this approach is no longer sufficient. We find ourselves at a pivotal moment: the shift from managing through change to building organizations that are inherently adaptable. The organizations that thrive in the future will be those that see adaptability not as a once-in-a-while response to disruption but as a defining characteristic of their culture and operations. This goes beyond agility in some projects or a few strategic experiments. It’s about fostering a change muscle—a deeply ingrained capability that allows organizations to proactively sense, respond, and lead in a constantly shifting landscape. As we step into 2025, I urge all of us to think about how we can strengthen our own change muscle—individually and collectively. Let’s challenge ourselves to design systems that encourage, rather than restrict, adaptation. Let’s invest in equipping ourselves and our teams with the skills to navigate and lead through change. And let’s commit to fostering a culture that sees the possibilities in change. This year, no different from the previous few, will be disruptive and turbulent. While challenging, this also creates an opportunity to create new ways of working that allow organizations to not only survive but thrive. Thank you for your dedication and commitment to making a difference in this ever-changing world.
I totally agree. And, the challenge for senior leaders will be to realize they can’t just buy change muscles for their organization, but instead must strengthen their own change muscles to help the organization thrive in the turbulence and uncertainty. Strong change leaders at the top are the key to an adaptable organization. Thank you for all you do to help organizations thrive in the face of change. It’s been my honor to be with you at the leading edge of change for 15+ years. 2025 will be the most remarkable year yet!
Indeed, change needs to be seen as a habit, a way of being. Adaptability becomes part of who you are and change is welcomed rather than a process to go through to finally arrive at some idyllic state where change is no longer required.
Thanks John Kotter for your always prescient wisdom. I remember sharing lunch with you at an event where we were both speaking to Cisco executives. You said, "You know the #1 prerequisite for change? A sense of URGENCY." It was true then, and it's true now, isn't it?
John Kotter, thank you for this insightful post. As you powerfully stated, adaptability will be a defining characteristic of thriving organizations as we create new ways of working that position our organizations to win.
Thank You for sharing
well said, as ever, John
True John. When you evolve into an adaptable organisation, you mitigate innumerable risks and the surrounding uncertainty loses relevance.
Spot on John - the accelerated technology enhancements make change even more pivotal - Merry Christmas to you and your team!
Thank you John Kotter for your insights and leadership example! 💖 Great point for us to take into 2025: ‘think about how we can strengthen our own change muscle—individually and collectively.’
Senior Accounts Receivable Analyst | 10+ Years in Revenue Cycle | Transforming Portfolios Across Diverse Industries | Leadership Enthusiast 💫
1dI recently completed a leadership course as part of my graduate program, which focused on your transformational leadership models. In one of my discussions, I examined how AI can be utilized as a tool to enhance human capabilities rather than replace them, while emphasizing the importance of embracing change. A guiding principle I live by is: “If you’re afraid of change, you’re afraid of living.” Your post validates these learnings and reassures me that I’m on the right path to fostering authentic leadership in an era shaped by rapid technological advancements. Thank you for your insights and continuing to inspire meaningful leadership practices.