Fearless Change Patterns for Introducing New Ideas

Chapter Twelve. Dealing with Resistance

You’re going to run up against those who are less than enthusiastic about the innovation. Some of these are hardliners, but most are just hesitant. Usually we tend to avoid these roadblocks, but we need to see them in a more positive light. Fear Less(151), Bridge-Builder(110), Champion Skeptic(116), Corridor Politics(126), and Whisper in the General’s Ear(248) will help you overcome resistance.

We have a colleague, a sturdily built, strong-willed individual we’ll call “Michael.” He’s very bright and takes great pains when he presents something new at meetings. He does a thorough job of arguing his case, ...