When we experience a big change, we need support to help us make it to the other side. Developmental psychology, and particularly the seminal work of D.W. Winnicott, offers a way to do this: through transitional objects. These objects — whether they take the form of a physical item (like a security blanket) or something more abstract (like a routine, habit, or action) — provide the necessary grounding to help us navigate uncertainty.
3 Tools to Help Leaders Steady Their Teams During a Transition
Understanding how people process change can help everyone stay grounded.
March 30, 2021
Summary.
When people navigate big changes, one thing that can help is what developmental psychologists call “transitional objects.” These objects — whether they take the form of a physical item (like a security blanket) or something more abstract (like a routine, habit, or action) — provide the necessary grounding to guide someone through uncertainty. Research shows that they can help organizations during major times of upheaval, too. In order for leaders to identify which transitional objects might be most helpful to employees, they should consider three attributes of how people process change: choice, a connection to a purpose, and using something new as a bridge toward where you’re headed.
New!
HBR Learning
Change Management Course
Accelerate your career with Harvard ManageMentor®. HBR Learning’s online leadership training helps you hone your skills with courses like Change Management. Earn badges to share on LinkedIn and your resume. Access more than 40 courses trusted by Fortune 500 companies.
Change may be the only constant in today's organizations. Here's how to lead through it.
Learn More & See All Courses
New!
HBR Learning
Change Management Course
Accelerate your career with Harvard ManageMentor®. HBR Learning’s online leadership training helps you hone your skills with courses like Change Management. Earn badges to share on LinkedIn and your resume. Access more than 40 courses trusted by Fortune 500 companies.
Change may be the only constant in today's organizations. Here's how to lead through it.