Understanding Resistance to Change in Leadership with Dr. Ernest Wayde

Psych in Business

In this episode of the "Psych in Business" podcast, Dr. Ernest Wayde explores the emotional and psychological challenges faced by Dr. Emily Carter, the acting CEO of Blue River's Hospital, as she navigates significant organizational change. This episode delves into the application of practical psychology in the workplace, focusing on how understanding the personal impact of change can improve leadership effectiveness and employee relations.

Dr. Emily Carter is tasked with the challenging implementation of Optima Health System's (OHS) electronic health record (EHR) system within six months, despite recently investing in a new EHR system. Additionally, she faces financial losses, staff turnover, absenteeism, and the pressure of maintaining the hospital's public image. Feeling overwhelmed, Dr. Carter turns to a psychologist friend for guidance on how to manage these changes effectively.

Key Takeaways

• Personal Impact: Dr. Carter learns to focus on how the EHR system change affects her as both a physician and a leader.

• Emotional Responses: She identifies emotions like frustration, anxiety, helplessness, and anger that influence her behaviors.

• Behavioral Chain Analysis: Dr. Carter connects her emotional responses to specific behaviors, such as defiance and disengagement.

• Normalizing Resistance: Resistance to change is a natural response driven by the brain's preference for routine and familiarity.

• Leader's Journey: Leaders often forget their own initial resistance to change when communicating new directives.

• Compassionate Leadership: Understanding the psychological aspects of change helps leaders approach change more compassionately.

• Future Strategies: The episode will discuss strategies to help leaders and their teams move from resistance to acceptance.

You can visit our website at Wayde Consulting.