Leading Through the Whirlwind

Leading Through the Whirlwind

Because even the best leaders need support sometimes...

Hi, leader friends!

If you’re a leader right now, you’re probably feeling the pressure, the pace, and the unpredictability at work. Between AI reshaping and complementing jobs (not replacing), hybrid work redefining culture, and employees expecting more purpose and flexibility, the workplace is changing fast! It’s a lot to carry. I know it, see it, and hear it daily.  

Here’s the truth. Change management isn’t just a business buzzword, it’s a lifeline. So, what is change management? It’s the art (and science) of helping people move through transitions. Whether it’s a new system, a reorg, culture or strategy shift. It’s about guiding your team through the “messy middle” with empathy, clarity, and purpose.

But here’s the kicker, 70% of change initiatives still fail. And nearly half of leaders aren’t sure if their last change effort even worked. That’s not because you don’t care, hopefully! It’s because most leaders are overwhelmed, under-supported, and often flying blind.

What leaders are really facing today:

• Uncertainty: You’re expected to make big decisions with limited info and still keep morale high.
• Emotional weight: Your team’s stress becomes your stress. And when you’re running on empty, it’s hard to show up fully.
• Disconnected teams: Hybrid work is great, but it’s harder to build trust and connection across screens.
• Constant adaptation: AI, shifting roles, new expectations, new employee demands, it’s nonstop. And it’s exhausting.

So, what helps and what do you do? Well, training and development on the subject is key. Know what you need to know. Then of course, leading with empathy & accountability is a great place to start. You don’t have to choose between being kind and being clear. You can do both. Open communication is key. Talk about the “why” behind the change. Listen more than you speak. And don’t pretend to have all the answers. If you’ve heard me once, you’ll hear me say that leaders who understand and manage emotions, both theirs and their team’s, are more successful at driving change. And, finally, a growth mindset. Change is hard, but it’s also a chance to grow. Leaders who embrace uncertainty and keep learning are the ones who thrive.

Final thought is that you’re not alone in this. Change isn’t the enemy. It’s an invitation. Change is messy, emotional, and often uncomfortable, but it’s also where the magic happens. When leaders show up with empathy, clarity, and courage, they don’t just manage change, they lead transformation. And… that’s what the world needs right now.

If you are interested in more information or need some guidance, we have tools to help you! The Academy has training content, and The People Playbook has resources to support you! We can also talk about facilitator training where we do the heavy lifting for you. A recent leader said, “What a great presentation yesterday.  I love how some were so out of their comfort zone. I can’t thank you enough for how it has helped me.” 

Call or connect with us here.

-Erin