PARADIGMS THAT BLOCK CHANGE

We’ve identified more than thirty cultural paradigms — invisible scripts that shape how teams respond to uncertainty. These aren’t flaws. They’re strengths that typically help us, but now conflict with what the moment requires. Below are six of the most common patterns we encounter:

#1

“premature packaging”

The same clarity that helps ideas take shape can also make teams finalize too soon, gloss over complexity, and commit before understanding what the moment truly requires.

#2

“misplaced martyrdom”

The same dedication that fuels perseverance can also cause teams to reject more sustainable processes or technologies and undermine long-term performance.

#3

“misallocated passion”

The same enthusiasm that drives innovation can also scatter energy across too many ideas, mis-time initiatives, and drain resources before momentum fully forms.

#5

“RECKLESS RELIABILITY”

The same consistency that builds trust can also anchor teams to outdated systems, resist timely pivots, and reduce responsiveness to shifting realities.

#4

“paralyzing PRAISE”

The same recognition that motivates excellence can also trap teams in past successes, reinforce outdated strategies, and mask early signs that conditions have changed.

#6

“MISPLACED MODESTY”

The same humility that fosters collaboration can also keep capable people from stepping into needed roles, claiming their contributions, or offering emerging insight.