What is Change Fatigue?

Change fatigue is our natural response to the overwhelm of our natural ability to respond and adapt to the change around us.

It occurs when we've reached the end of our 'adaptive capacity' - that ability we all have to cope when we have uncertainty in our lives for a short time. After that short time has expired, we need to rest and restore to be able to continue to respond in the same way.

We become change fatigued when uncertainty and unpredictability become the norm and we exceed that capacity to cope. Constant change leaves us with a fatigued system, and lots of outward and inward signs of stress and overwhelm.

What does Change Fatigue look like?

Change Fatigue looks different on everyone, but as leaders and team members you are probably fairly familiar with the most common signs of change fatigue:

• Low/no motivation

• Big feelings about small things

• Low energy

• Avoiding making decisions

• Frustration

• Blame and negativity

• Low productivity

• High turnover

Sound familiar?

There's nothing abnormal, unnatural or strange about experiencing change fatigue. In fact, it's the most natural and sensible response in the world.

When overloaded, the brain needs to press the brakes and preserve resources. In other words, to protect us.

Managing this natural response

Recognising the challenge in our organisations, leaders, teams and individuals is only the start.

Creating a sense of understanding of self, capability and systems to support and long term methods to help manage our internal resources is vital to making the change we experience today more manageable.

There is a role for each individual, our leaders, teams, and the organisation to play is reducing the impact of Change Fatigue.

Learn more

Want to know more about the impact of Change Fatigue, and the types of change that causes the most fatigue?

Or perhaps you're ready to Connect with your People to create safety and support for this natural response?