Behavioural Change, Tough? Not Anymore

You’ve just returned from an inspiring workshop, devoured a book on communication techniques, or gained memorable insights from a business game. You’re determined: from now on, things are going to be different. And they all lived happily ever after…well, not quite.

More than the sum of its parts

Good intentions are one thing; lasting results are another beast entirely. The reason? Simple yet complex: as an individual, you alone can’t make a lasting change within an organisation. You’re part of a bigger, more intricate puzzle where every piece is interdependent. No element stands alone.
It works like this: if you decide to change your behaviour, it will affect the system. If, for example, you set new limits for yourself in your organisation from one day to the next because you want to create more balance in your private life, your colleagues will notice it. The natural tendency of a system is to get back into the old balance as quickly as possible. That means the environment is going to do everything it can to get you back in line. Chances are that your colleagues find it strange, to say the least, that you are suddenly preaching a 9-to-5 mentality, but yesterday you were more than willing to work overtime, and they wonder, out loud, why that is. And whether you could possibly take a look at something else later this evening……

Work together

Making things happen solo is tough; teamwork is essential. So, gather your colleagues, share your aspirations, and discuss their thoughts. Don’t shy away from the iceberg—what’s beneath the surface can profoundly influence behaviour, both yours and your colleagues’. Consider assumptions, images, (limiting) beliefs, or ingrained behaviour patterns.

Engaging in this kind of conversation requires courage. Expect some resistance or old wounds to surface. If structural issues are affecting the atmosphere, collaboration, or team results, don’t hesitate to seek guidance from a professional.

The system will always try to revert to the old ‘normal’

Is your goal clear? Have agreements been made? Then it’s action time. But beware of pitfalls—ingraining new habits is hard work. The saying “old habits die hard” exists for a reason. Give yourself and others the time and space to adapt to the change.

There are many ways to maximise your success. Don’t fear experimentation—what seems like a good idea might not work in practice. Ask a colleague for feedback or discuss it with your boss. Try everything to give the change the best chance to stick.

Remember, the system will tug at you to return to ‘normal’. Be prepared for this challenge. Your brain is wired to revert to familiar routines, operating on autopilot. Notice this? Great! Acknowledge it, laugh at it sometimes, share your experiences, and, most importantly, celebrate successes when things go right!
In the end, behavioural change doesn’t have to be so tough. The main challenge? Perseverance.