For any change, we need to deal with resistance. We may find change management challenging, but there is a simple formula that may help you manage change.

In the first half of the last decade of the previous century, I attended a 3 days residential corporate training program. It influenced me so much, that the very next year I became a trainer for the same program. One full day of the program was dedicated to learn Management of Change (MOC). Although I learned many valuable principles in that program, one with the most impact on me was the formula for the change. I have been using this formula to manage change in my personal and professional life ever since.

Here is the Dannemiller’s version of the formula: C = D × V × F > R

where,

C is change

D is Dissatisfaction with the current situation

V is Vision of what is possible

F is First concrete steps that needs to be taken towards that vision

R is Resistance.

As long as Resistance R is greater than the multiplication of DV and F, the change will not occur.

Since D, V, and F are multiplied, if any of these is absent (zero), then the product will be zero, and change will not take place.

Usually we observe presence of dissatisfaction (D) in most of the cases. If there is a lack of vision, then one needs to consult someone or any external agency. If there is no first step taken, having vision is of no use.

In my case, most of the times, I have dissatisfaction and I have a vision, but I do not take that first step. Anytime, when the dissatisfaction and vison is present, but there is no first step, it just creates frustration. I need to remind myself every day – take that first step.

Do you find change management challenging? What is the most challenging part of it? Did you know about the equation of change?

– Amar Ghanekar
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