“The fiercest battles are seldom fought over theology. More often, they are fought over change; sometimes even the slightest change. Here’s a process that can smooth the way for change.”
Test the waters. The first thing to with a new idea is find out how people will react should the change take place. First, it lets you know if your dissatisfaction with the status quo is shared by others. Second, testing the waters will tell you what changes not to make. Finally, it lets you know what aspects of a proposed change will cause the most resistance and who the resisters are most likely to be.
Listen and respond to resisters. People who resist our ideas are sometimes labeled adversaries. We should prefer to see them as advisors. They can transform a good idea into a great idea!
Sell individuals before groups. When an idea is presented to a group, everyone’s opinions become a matter of public record, and public stands are hard to change.
Lead boldly. Not running roughshod over those who disagree with you. But clearly making your views known and doing everything you can to persuade the holdouts to follow. Bold leadership is needed, or a handful of critics will hold off an army of supporters.
