015 | Harnessing the Power of Change
Episode Summary:
In this episode of Emotional Organization, Dr. Denaige McDonnell introduces the Team of One model—a transformative approach to personal growth and change management. Drawing from her expertise in leadership and emotional intelligence, Dr. McDonnell explains how you can align your past, present, and future selves to work as a cohesive team. You’ll learn practical strategies to build trust with yourself, use handover notes to maintain momentum, and navigate life’s challenges with clarity and intention. Whether you’re setting goals, managing change, or simply looking for a new way to approach personal development, this episode is packed with insights to help you succeed.
What You’ll Learn in This Episode:
- The Concept of the Team of One:
- How your past, present, and future selves form a team that works together to drive personal growth.
- The distinct roles of each self:
- Past Self: The archivist who provides lessons and a foundation to build on.
- Present Self: The leader and visionary who drives decisions and actions.
- Future Self: The aspirational figure who benefits from today’s efforts.
- The Importance of Handover Notes:
- Why handover notes aren’t just checklists—they’re instructions, reminders, and inspiration for your future self.
- How to use handover notes to maintain momentum, save time, and create clarity in your life.
- Building Trust with Yourself:
- How to trust your past self’s decisions and avoid the trap of rework or second-guessing.
- Strategies for cultivating a positive internal culture through self-compassion and respect.
- Practical Applications:
- Simple steps to integrate the Team of One model into your daily life, including:
- Writing effective handover notes.
- Reflecting on lessons from your past self.
- Using your vision of your future self to guide your present actions.
- Connecting to Change Management:
- How the Team of One aligns with well-known change management frameworks like Lewin’s Change Model.
- Why this mindset is as powerful for personal growth as it is for leading organizational change.
Key Takeaways:
- You’re never working alone—your past, present, and future selves form a team that supports your growth.
- Trust, preparation, and momentum are the foundations of success in the Team of One.
- Handover notes are a game-changer for staying focused, inspired, and on track.
- By applying the Team of One model, you can navigate change with the same clarity and intention as a great leader.
Action Steps for Listeners:
- Write Your First Handover Note:
At the end of the day, take five minutes to write down what you accomplished, what needs to happen next, and any words of encouragement or reminders for your future self. - Reflect on Your Past Self:
Think about a decision your past self made that has benefited you today. Use that reflection to build trust in your decision-making process. - Envision Your Future Self:
Picture where you want to be in a year. What small steps can your present self take today to set that vision in motion?
Mentioned in This Episode:
- Change Management Theories:
Name of the Model
Description of the Model
Disciplines Most Used For
Lewin's Change Model
A three-step process: Unfreeze (prepare for change), Change (implement change), Refreeze (solidify change).
Operations, Project Management
Kotter's 8-Step Model
An eight-step framework focusing on creating urgency, building a guiding coalition, and sustaining momentum.
Leadership, Organizational Development
ADKAR Model
Focuses on five stages: Awareness, Desire, Knowledge, Ability, and Reinforcement for successful change.
Human Resources, Employee Training
Bridges Transition Model
Focuses on the emotional and psychological journey of change: Ending, Neutral Zone, and New Beginning.
Human Resources, Change Communication
McKinsey's 7-S Framework
Aligns seven organizational elements: Strategy, Structure, Systems, Shared Values, Skills, Style, and Staff.
Strategic Management, Leadership
Deming Cycle (PDCA)
A cyclical process of continuous improvement: Plan, Do, Check, Act.
Operations, Quality Assurance
Nudge Theory
Uses small, subtle prompts to influence behavior and encourage change.
Marketing, Behavioral Economics
Satir Change Model
Explores emotional responses to change: Late Status Quo, Chaos, Integration, and New Status Quo.
Human Resources, Counseling
Prosci Framework
Focuses on structured project management for implementing change effectively.
Project Management, Leadership
Beckhard's Change Equation
Balances dissatisfaction with the current state, a clear vision, and actionable first steps.
Leadership, Strategic Planning
Tips for Handover Notes:
- Write instructions, not just tasks.
- Include reminders and lessons.
- Add a note of encouragement or inspiration.
Connect with Dr. Denaige McDonnell:
- Website: www.emotionalorganization.com
- Podcast: Emotional Organization (available on all major platforms)
