Culture, Habits and Leadership
Change isn’t complicated.
But it is hard.
We’ve all seen projects launch with energy, then fizzle out. Why? Because when people are busy or stressed, they fall back on what they know. If you don’t replace the old routines with something better — and keep reinforcing it — the change won’t last.
Culture Drives Behaviour
Management books reference Lewin’s description of successful change as Unfreeze → Change → Refreeze (1947). A more up-to-date version by Prosci (2024) explains it as “living the new norms.” The message is the same: unless you shift the culture and stabilise new habits, people will revert back to what they know
Here’s how change happens:
- Make the new way easier than the old one.
- Reinforce — not just once, but over and over.
- Leaders must show the behaviour, not just ask for it.
Don’t Overcomplicate
A plan matters
Keep it:
- Easy to read.
- Specific to the task.
- Simple to update.
Communication is Key
Don’t assume people will read your email or update. They won’t. We live in a world of constant information, which can overwhelm us:
- Hold regular sessions
- Help people see what’s important.
- Support them when things feel overwhelming.
Lead With People in Mind
When you lead change, all eyes are on you:
- Be Positive — smile, be open, and use the right language
- Be Clear — clarity takes away emotion & reduces anxiety
- Be Kind — what feels small to you, might be a huge obstacle for others
Reflection matters
Take time to check
- What works?
- What doesn’t?
Then act on it. Lessons are wasted if they aren’t shared or used.
Finally
Change isn’t just a process or a system. It’s people.
It’s the culture they work in, the habits they fall back on, and the leadership they see.
It’s communication and clear expectations that cut through the noise.
It’s kindness, because change always affects each person differently.
Get those right — and change doesn’t fade. It holds.
By Beth Woodhouse
Beth Woodhouse is Strategic Advisor at Skewb. To speak with her about this topic in more detail, you can connect with her on LinkedIn.
