“Strategic leaders deal with change by being proactive, not reactive,” points out Frances Hesselbein, underscoring the necessity for good leadership when it comes to facilitating change.

Organizational change is especially challenging since it involves multiple people, a host of assumptions, and various operating paradigms. Leaders are critical in managing organizational change. They need to stay positive and upbeat before the transition and build trust by communicating with actions that back up their words. They should always remember Paul’s injunction to be both positive and gentle: “Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice! Let your gentleness be evident to all.” (Philippians 4:4-5)

Leaders also need to cut their people slack as they mourn losses and be careful not to overreact when facing opposition. In the neutral zone between the old and the new they should focus on CUSP:

• Helping their people take Control of the changing situation—giving one the ability to control even a minor aspect of a change is empowering and minimizes fear. 
• Assisting them to Understand what is happening as the transition takes place—clarity about what is known and unknown versus simply stating hope or possibilities.
• Giving Support—walking beside someone provides assurance and prevents an overwhelming sense of aloneness.
• Clarifying Priorities—giving guidance throughout the transition with a focus on the most important steps first.

Change is not easy. It can be complex and difficult to manage compounded by the fact that, it is only human to resist drastic change. Removing what feels normal and secure and replacing it with something new affects people at both rational and emotional levels leading to sometimes unhealthy reactions. Those who master self-leadership and experience change can help other individuals in taking transformation to the organizational level. Our greatest goal is to be transformed into the image of Christ so that we can help others change to become the men and women God created them to be. Embrace change yourself before you change the world.