We've always done it that way
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Few phrases frustrate leaders more than: "But we've always done it that way!"
It sounds like resistance. A lack of buy-in. A refusal to change.
And that's why so many leaders immediately become defensive, saying things like:
"This is the direction we're going."
"We've already decided."
"We don't have time to debate this."
The problem?
People resist change for a reason. They're protecting something.
When leaders dismiss fears, concerns, discomfort, they unintentionally create an argument.
Instead, try refocusing your team on the mutual objective…while holding firm:
"How can we improve this process together without losing what's already working?"
or
"What does the current approach do well that we should make sure to keep?"
Now the conversation shifts.
People become far more open to change when they feel respected and included in solving the problem.
Strong leaders don't get people to change by:
Triangulating ("They're making us do this")
Distancing ("Don't blame me")
Steamrolling ("This discussion is over")
Defending ("We've already thought of that")
Minimizing ("It's really not that big of a change")
Labeling ("You're just resistant to change")
Appealing to authority ("The executive team has already decided"), or
Claiming false consensus ("Everybody else is on board")
Strong leaders move change forward by creating shared commitment.
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