A sixth sense for project management | Tres Roeder | TEDxCWRU

Summary

In this inspiring talk, the speaker thanks the organizers and audience for their commitment to change. Drawing on 30 years of experience, they emphasize the importance of being a student of change and highlight Case Western Reserve University's history of pioneering graduates. The speaker shares a framework for leading change, including awareness, whole-body decisions, clear communication, adaptability, diplomacy, and persistence. With real-world examples, they illustrate the complexities of change and encourage the audience to embrace their role in creating a better world.

Takeaways

• 🎉 The speaker expresses gratitude to the organizers and attendees for their involvement in the event and their commitment to learning and change.
• 🌟 Case Western Reserve University has a history of fostering change through its graduates, including the first African-American student and some of the first female physicians in the U.S.
• 🔍 The speaker emphasizes the importance of being a 'student of change' and using this knowledge to make a positive impact on the world.
• 🤔 Awareness is crucial for leading change; it involves understanding oneself, others, the situation, and the environment.
• 📊 Facts and data are important for guiding change, but they must be balanced with an understanding of people's reactions and nonverbal cues.
• 🧠💓💭 The concept of 'whole body decisions' is introduced, which involves using the brain, heart, and gut to make the best decisions.
• 📍 Clear communication is vital for leading change effectively; it ensures that the message conveyed is the same as the one received.
• 🔄 Adaptability is key in leading change; plans may need to change, and leaders must be ready to adjust their approach as needed.
• 🔗 Surrounding oneself with a supportive group of stakeholders who believe in the change is essential for its success.
• 🕊 Diplomacy is important when leading change, as conflict is inevitable, and how leaders handle it will determine their effectiveness.
• 🏋️ Persistence is the final discipline for leading change, but it must be balanced with knowing when to push and when to step back.

Q & A

What is the main theme of the speaker's address at the event?

The main theme is about the importance of being a part of positive change and making a difference in the world, as well as the disciplines required to lead and manage change effectively.

Why did the speaker decide to focus on change professionally?

The speaker decided to focus on change professionally to find an opportunity to make the world a little bit better in their own way.

What is the significance of Case Western Reserve University in the context of the speaker's talk?

Case Western Reserve University is significant because it has a history of graduating trailblazing individuals, such as the first African-American student in the U.S. and six of the first eight female physicians, setting a precedent for change.

What is the first discipline the speaker mentions for leading change?

The first discipline mentioned is awareness, which involves being conscious of oneself, others, the situation, and the environment.

What does the speaker mean by 'whole body decisions'?

'Whole body decisions' refer to the process of making decisions using not just the brain, but also incorporating the heart and gut, leading to more effective and intuitive choices.

How does the speaker describe the importance of clear communication in leading change?

Clear communication is crucial as it ensures that the idea in the speaker's mind is accurately conveyed and understood by the listeners, preventing misinterpretation.

What is the role of adaptability in the process of leading change, according to the speaker?

Adaptability is essential in leading change because it allows the leader to adjust their approach and plans as circumstances evolve, ensuring the continued progress towards the goal.

What does the speaker suggest is the art of change?

The art of change, according to the speaker, is knowing when to adapt and when not to, while staying true to one's core vision, ethics, and morals.

How does the speaker view conflict in the context of leading change?

The speaker views conflict as an inevitable part of leading change, and it should be managed effectively rather than avoided. The key is how one responds to conflict.

What is the final discipline the speaker discusses for leading change?

The final discipline is persistence, which is important but should be exercised with wisdom, knowing when to push, sprint, or back off.

What is the speaker's closing message to the audience about their role in making the world a better place?

The speaker encourages the audience to take the six disciplines discussed and apply them to improve themselves, thereby contributing positively to their institution, future employers, community, and the world at large.