Early on, I believed that leading transformation was all about the destination. Bold vision. Big energy. Full steam ahead.
I was wrong.
What I’ve learned over time is this: You can’t lead meaningful change without first understanding where you’re starting from.
Here’s what would’ve saved me a lot of stress:
1. Know where you stand
You can’t move forward if you don’t know what’s happening now. Many transformations fail because leaders overlook current habits, systems, and challenges.
2. Make space for resistance
People aren’t afraid of change. They’re afraid of the unknown. Involving them in the process builds clarity and trust.
3. Build progress into the plan
A big goal is great, but teams need smaller wins to stay motivated. Set milestones that reflect progress in a tangible way.
4. Be honest about the gap
Don’t just sell the dream. Help your team see how far you’ve come and what’s still ahead. That honesty makes the future feel possible.
This shift has changed how I lead. Now, I start with the present before pointing to the future. It’s harder, but it works.
And maybe that’s the real challenge. Vision can be comfortable. Facing reality isn’t. But that’s where leadership begins.
Have you ever led a transformation that struggled because the starting point wasn’t clear? What did you learn from it? – Ali Aydan
Ali Aydan: Why Vision Alone Isn’t Enough for Real Transformation
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