Embracing the Enormity of Change: A Revolutionary Approach to Management
One phrase completely reshaped how I approach change management: “Be afraid of the enormity of the possible.”
At first, it felt contradictory. Why be afraid of possibility? Over time I realised it is not about fear but about respecting the vast potential that change brings. That insight shifted my leadership style and helped me see change as something to be welcomed, not resisted.
In today’s fast-moving business world, change is more than constant; it is expansive. Leaders who recognise the scale of opportunity and prepare their teams to embrace it create cultures where innovation and resilience thrive. Each setback becomes a chance to learn, and every ambitious idea has the potential to transform an organisation.
The enormity of the possible is not a reason to hold back. It is an invitation to step forward with courage, clarity, and trust in the people around you.
What would it be if you could only choose one tool from your kit?
A change impact assessment is a vital tool for managing organisational transformation, giving teams a clear understanding of how change will affect people, processes, and systems. It maps the journey from the current state to the future state, helping to identify risks, allocate resources, set realistic timelines, and create strategies that address specific needs. Flexible in design, it can provide either a high-level overview or a detailed analysis of stakeholder groups, depending on project requirements. The insights gained guide communication, engagement, training, and support, while also helping program teams, technical teams, test managers, and leaders prepare effectively. Completing a strong assessment involves defining the scope, identifying stakeholders, gathering data, analysing gaps, assessing impact, and recommending actions, ensuring that every area of the organisation is aligned. Because change evolves over time, the assessment should be revisited throughout the project, serving as a practical compass that keeps everyone moving in the same direction.
Even traditional industries can successfully adopt digital transformation
Digital transformation often feels like a step too far, especially in industries built on tradition. Yet even in conservative sectors such as funeral services, change is not only possible but necessary when approached in the right way.
One funeral provider began by listening closely to frontline staff. By taking the time to understand daily pressures and concerns, the organisation built trust and reduced resistance. Instead of forcing change all at once, they tested new digital tools in smaller groups. A scheduling app, introduced on both desktop and mobile, replaced manual, paper-based processes with a simpler and more reliable system.
Support came from within. Change champions offered peer-to-peer training and encouragement, helping colleagues gain confidence and adopt the new approach. Flexibility also played a role. Employees could choose between company-managed devices or bring their own with an allowance, which made the transition smoother and respected personal preferences.
Throughout the process, the organisation never lost sight of its purpose: supporting grieving families. This focus reassured both staff and clients, reinforcing that the transformation was there to improve service rather than disrupt it. The result was higher adoption rates, stronger efficiency, and greater confidence in the care provided.
This case highlights that digital transformation works best when people’s needs come first, when change is introduced gradually, and when the purpose behind the change is clear.
Change Management isn’t just for big corporations with big budgets
Change management is not just for large corporations with endless budgets. Small and mid-sized businesses can also benefit by making transitions smoother, supporting their people, and improving efficiency without disrupting daily operations. The key is focusing on what matters most: engaging employees, addressing their concerns, and tailoring solutions to fit available resources. As the Birdsnest story shows, even smaller businesses can achieve remarkable results when they combine customer focus, cultural alignment, and smart use of technology with structured change practices. With the right support, change becomes less overwhelming and more of an opportunity to build resilience, confidence, and long-term success.