Leading change is difficult. The hardest part is not deciding which path to follow. The bigger challenge is found in the messy human dynamics throughout the journey of change. Many resources for leading change focus on process—the nice, neat steps to be followed. That’s the science of change.

The art of leading change addresses the unpredictable twists and turns that are inevitable when people are involved—which is all the time! How can leaders sway people who are reluctant to change? How should a leader deal with resistance? What is the best way to engage people who are apathetic and harness the energy of people who are excited? The insights from exploring these and similar questions can lead to a beautiful result.

Fletch and Mike Bonem explore the ups and downs in the art of change.

Resources

• Resisters Are Not the Enemy. This article is adapted from Mike’s book, The Art of Leading Change: Ten Perspectives on the Messiness of Ministry.

About Mike

Mike Bonem is a consultant and coach who loves to help ministries and their leaders grow in effectiveness to reach their God-given potential. He is the author or co-author of five books on ministry leadership, including Thriving in the Second Chair and Leading from the Second Chair. His latest book is The Art of Leading Change: Ten Perspectives on the Messiness of Ministry. Mike served for more than 10 years on the staff of West University Baptist Church in Houston as Executive Pastor. Prior to this, he had a business career that included consulting as a senior manager with McKinsey & Company and serving in senior leadership role in two environmental service companies. Mike obtained his MBA from Harvard Business School and a BS in chemical engineering from Rice University. Mike can be found at mikebonem.com or mike@mikebonem.com.