Overcoming Change Fatigue: How to Increase Momentum in Your Team
By Stephanie Bickel
Change Fatigue is Real
Team fatigue sets in usually around month 7 of a large initiative. You’ve likely seen it happen—a new project or initiative kicks off with enthusiasm, but over time, that initial excitement wanes. The team starts slowing down, productivity dips, and what was once a high-energy effort begins to feel like a slog. Whether it’s a new hire who has lost their spark or a long-term initiative that’s dragging on, change fatigue can be a significant roadblock to success.
How do you increase the team's momentum?
This lesson is all about Increasing Momentum. Momentum isn’t just about speed; it’s about keeping the energy and enthusiasm high, even when the going gets tough. It’s about reigniting the spark that got your team moving in the first place and propelling them forward with renewed vigor.
It’s Not Just About Pushing Harder
There’s a common myth that the best way to combat fatigue is to push harder. More meetings, more deadlines, more pressure. But this approach often leads to burnout rather than increased productivity. The truth is, you need to work smarter, not harder. By strategically increasing momentum, you can re-engage your team and create sustainable progress.
The Good and the Bad
The good news is that momentum is within your control. With the right strategies, you can turn things around and get your team back on track. The bad news? It’s not a one-size-fits-all solution. You’ll need to assess the unique challenges your team is facing and apply the appropriate strategies to overcome them.
Understanding the Causes of Change Fatigue
Research shows that change fatigue often stems from three primary sources:
Resistance to Change: When people fear the success of the initiative or the changes it will bring, they may resist, consciously or unconsciously.
Apathy: A combination of conflicting emotions like love and hate can lead to a state of apathy, where productivity plummets and enthusiasm fades.
Overwhelm: Constantly shifting priorities, unclear communication, and chaotic changes can overwhelm your team, leading to stagnation and burnout.
A Leader Who Mastered Momentum
Let me share a story about a leader I once worked with who was a master at building and sustaining momentum. This individual understood the importance of keeping his team engaged and energized over the long haul. He used every strategy in the book—not all at once, but spaced out thoughtfully over time. Each month, he introduced something new: a fresh goal, a novel approach, a reward system, or a special event. His team never knew what was coming next, but they loved it. They stayed on their toes, eager to see what he would do to keep them moving forward.
When this leader left the organization, the impact was palpable. His departure took the wind out of the team’s sails. No one knew how to fill his shoes, and it was clear just how powerful his ability to increase momentum had been. The lesson? When you master these strategies, you become an indispensable leader—one your team will never forget and will always want to follow.
Picture A High-Energy, Motivated Team
Imagine a future where your team is not just surviving through change, but thriving. They’re energized, engaged, and motivated, even when faced with long-term initiatives and inevitable challenges. They’re not just working towards the finish line; they’re excited about the journey and the progress they’re making along the way. By increasing momentum, you can create a team culture that’s resilient, dynamic, and unstoppable.
If you’re ready to learn how to master these strategies and increase momentum in your own team, I invite you to listen. It’s packed with practical tips and insights that will help you turn stagnation into progress and fatigue into renewed energy.
Listen now and start building the momentum your team needs to succeed! ___
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