Navigating Change: Understanding the Change Curve

Embracing Change in Our Lives

Sometimes, change can feel trivial: a reporting tweak, a new piece of kit, or a crew change. Other times, it can be seismic: a restructure at work, a death or injury during operations, or an unexpected storm at 2 AM.

Regardless of the scale, our brains process change in a familiar way – through the Change Curve. Originally mapped in the context of grief, the stages – shock, denial, frustration/anger, bargaining, depression, and acceptance – aren’t reserved for life’s biggest losses. We encounter some version of them almost every time our belief system or status quo gets challenged.

Every. Single. Time.

The Reality of the Change Curve

You can’t skip the curve. I once thought I could, but I was wrong. No matter how well trained you are, the curve is there, shaping your responses, mood, and performance. You might blast through the stages without noticing, work through them consciously, or get stuck on one for days or weeks. But you don’t get to opt out.

It applies to positive change too. A promotion, a workplace breakthrough, or even a brand-new boat can all cause a wobble before the glow sets in. Your identity shifts, expectations change, and your brain needs to recalibrate.

The Importance of Speed

Speed matters. The quicker you move through the curve and accept change, the better. This doesn’t mean faking acceptance. It means recognizing where you are and nudging yourself forward.

As an Army Chief of Staff or ‘COO’, I kept a copy of Kübler-Ross’ model on the wall. Whenever someone came in with bad news (“Boss, we have a problem… Widget X or Formation Y is FUBAR”), I’d glance at it and run us through the stages in fast-forward. “Feck, it can’t be, they’re idiots, can’t we just, we’re doomed… OK, we’re through it, let’s fix this thing!”

Self-Awareness: The Key to Progress

Self-awareness is crucial. If you feel yourself bristling in denial, grumbling in frustration, or sliding into despondency, choose not to anchor there. Instead, recognise your stage: “I know this stage, I know what comes next, let’s keep moving.”

The Role of Teamwork

Teamwork plays a significant role in navigating change. If a crewmate spots you stuck, or you notice a colleague deep in denial, trust becomes the currency for the honest nudge. There should be no judgment, no prejudice, and no “pull yourself together.” Just a shared language and a reminder that we’ve all been here before.

In the military, I saw this constantly, in barracks and on operations. Naming what’s happening helps people breathe easier. When the stakes are high, tools like Trauma Risk Management work well. At sea, it’s similar: a sudden weather change, a tactical decision, or a shift in plan can alter the mood. Those who understand the curve can steady the ship, both metaphorically and literally.

The Human Aspect of Change

This matters a lot. The curve isn’t about weaknesses; it’s about being human. The goal isn’t to avoid it but to navigate it with skill. Like navigation, the more you practice, the faster you move from “this is awful” to “this is fine” to “this is the way forward.”

Feel the curve. Understand its stages. Move through it. Together.

Understanding the Change Curve in Different Contexts

The Change Curve applies to various contexts, including personal life, workplace dynamics, and even societal shifts. Understanding how to navigate these changes can significantly impact your resilience and adaptability.

Personal Life Changes

In our personal lives, we often face changes that challenge our sense of stability. Whether it’s a relationship ending, a job loss, or a move to a new city, these changes can evoke strong emotional responses. Recognizing the stages of the Change Curve can help individuals process their feelings and move forward.

Workplace Dynamics

In the workplace, change is inevitable. Companies undergo restructuring, new technologies are implemented, and team dynamics shift. Understanding the Change Curve can help employees and leaders alike navigate these transitions more smoothly. It fosters a culture of empathy and support, allowing everyone to feel heard and understood.

Societal Shifts

On a larger scale, societal changes—such as cultural shifts, economic changes, or global events—can also trigger the Change Curve. Communities may experience collective grief, denial, or acceptance as they adapt to new realities. Being aware of these stages can help individuals and groups respond more effectively to societal changes.

Strategies for Navigating Change

To effectively navigate the Change Curve, consider the following strategies:

1. Acknowledge Your Feelings: Recognise and validate your emotions. It’s okay to feel overwhelmed or uncertain.

   
   

2. Seek Support: Don’t hesitate to reach out to friends, family, or colleagues. Sharing your experiences can lighten the emotional load.

   
   

3. Stay Informed: Knowledge is power. Understanding the reasons behind the change can help you accept it more readily.

   
   

4. Focus on Solutions: Instead of dwelling on the negatives, shift your focus to what you can do to adapt to the change.

   
   

5. Practice Self-Care: Take care of your mental and physical health during times of change. Engage in activities that bring you joy and relaxation.

   
   

Embracing Change Together

Navigating the Change Curve is a journey that everyone experiences. By understanding its stages and employing effective strategies, we can move through change with greater ease. Remember, you’re not alone in this process. Embrace the journey, support one another, and together, we can emerge stronger on the other side.

---

D3A Consulting Sunny Side Sailing Soldier Sailor