Apr 2, 2025
In a world where "transformation" has become a corporate buzzword, AI has arrived not just to accelerate change, but to challenge how we think about it. As someone who has spent over two decades helping organizations navigate complexity, I've witnessed many transformation waves — digital, cultural, structural. But AI isn’t just another wave. It’s reshaping the shoreline.
Here’s the truth: AI is not the transformation. It’s a tool within the transformation. What we do with it and how we guide others through the change is where the real work begins.
Reframing Fear into Focus
There’s a natural fear that AI will replace people. But what if we shifted the narrative? What if we viewed AI not as a threat, but as a powerful partner, one that automates the repetitive to free up the creative, the relational, the strategic?
This shift in mindset is essential and it starts at the top. Leaders must not only understand AI's capabilities, but they must also role model adaptability. The “Adapt” in the ADKAR model (Awareness, Desire, Knowledge, Ability, Reinforcement) has never been more relevant. AI adoption isn’t just a tech initiative. It’s a mindset movement.
Three Conversations Every Leader Should Be Having
What problems are we solving — and should AI be part of the solution? Not everything needs AI. Start with purpose, not the shiny object.
How do we build desire and not just compliance? When people understand how AI improves their day-to-day — makes their jobs more meaningful, not redundant — resistance softens.
What skills need to evolve, and how will we support that? This is where transformation becomes deeply human. Reskilling isn’t just about technical training. It’s emotional. It’s identity work.
Making It Real
As consultants and change leaders, we must be translators, connecting the tech to the people, and the strategy to the story. AI won’t slow down, but we can choose to speed up wisely. Build Awareness. Spark Desire. Invest in Knowledge. Support Ability. Reinforce the wins.
In short, we need to lead change that’s both intelligent and inclusive.
Because transformation isn’t about technology. It’s about trust.
Let’s connect. How is AI showing up in your transformation efforts and how are you helping others adapt?
