How Stephen Covey's Change Model Empowers Transformational Leadership
How Stephen Covey's Change Model Empowers Transformational Leadership
In the ever-evolving landscape of leadership, the ability to navigate transformation effectively is paramount. Enter Stephen Covey's "See-Do-Get" model, a deceptively simple yet powerful framework that offers a compelling perspective on driving positive change. Let's explore how this model empowers transformational leadership and fuels lasting impact.
The Power of "See":
Transformational leaders understand that change begins with a change of paradigms. From what challenges, problems and difficult situations they are in, to how they possibly SEE differently in order to make sense, change or solve things. It is said that we need to break the eggs to make an omelet. Breakthroughs come from breakwiths former ways of seeing, a change of mindset and a new paradigm to work with. The "See" aspect also emphasizes developing a clear vision, a mental framework outlining the desired future state. This vision isn't just about goals; it's about values, purpose, and the impact they want to create. Leaders who effectively "See" inspire others by painting a compelling picture of what's possible, igniting the spark of motivation and commitment.
The Bridge to Action: "Do"
Vision alone isn't enough. Transformation demands action. The "Do" aspect emphasizes taking deliberate steps towards the envisioned future. It's about aligning practices and behaviors, strategies, and processes with the desired end state. It is the discipline to practice the kind of behavior manifesting your change of perspective (See). Transformational leaders have the agency to excel at creating action plans, fostering collaboration, and empowering individuals to take ownership of their roles in the change process.
Reaching the Destination: "Get"
The "Get" aspect represents the tangible results and outcomes of successful transformation. It's the realization of the envisioned future, the positive impact created. Transformational leaders celebrate achieved milestones, measure progress, and learn from successes and challenges. But more importantly, they use the "Get" as a stepping stone for further growth, setting new visions and continuing the cycle of positive change.
Beyond a Linear Model:
The "See-Do-Get" model isn't a linear progression. It's an iterative process where each aspect continuously informs and influences the others. Leaders might revisit the "See" stage to refine their vision as they learn from the "Do" and "Get" phases. Similarly, achieving significant "Gets" can inform adjustments in the "Do" and refine the "See" for even greater impact.
Empowering Individuals, Transforming Organizations:
By applying the "See-Do-Get" model, transformational leaders empower individuals to become active participants in change. They create a culture of shared vision, ownership, and accountability, where everyone contributes to driving progress. This fosters deeper engagement, higher levels of motivation, and ultimately, sustainable transformation. Beyond Organizations, Impacting the World: The "See-Do-Get" model's relevance extends beyond organizations. It empowers individuals to envision a better future for themselves and their communities, take action based on their values, and create positive change in the world around them. Whether leading a team, a community initiative, or simply their own lives, individuals equipped with this framework can become powerful agents of positive transformation.
Taking the First Step for students:
No matter where they are in their journey of change, the "See-Do-Get" model offers a clear and actionable framework. The results we get depend on what we do. What we do depends on how we see the world. As educators, we can start by helping them answer, behave and achieve the following:
What change (paradigms and mindsets) do I want to see and adopt? (See)
What practices (behavior and steps) can I take to get there? (Do)
What results do I want to achieve, and how will I measure my success? (Get)
Remember, change doesn't happen overnight. Be patient, celebrate your progress, and keep your vision at the forefront. With the power of "See-Do-Get" guiding you, you can achieve anything you set your mind to. In conclusion, Stephen Covey's "See-Do-Get" model offers a timeless framework for transformational leadership. By empowering individuals to envision, act, and achieve, it fosters lasting change and creates a ripple effect of positive impact that can reach far beyond the confines of any organization or individual. So, whether you're aiming to transform your team, your community, or your own life, remember, the power to drive positive change starts with seeing a better future, then taking action, and ultimately, achieving your "Get."
About the author
Christine’s personal philosophy is that transformation, whether societal, organizational, individual, begins with a change of mind, heart, and soul. She is an experienced leadership, organization development, corporate trainer, coach, faith formation and education professional with over 30 years of experience. An effective communicator with a sensitivity to Asian multicultural, socio-political, and economic realities. She is a reliable resource for a variety of disciplines: business ethics, corporate culture, leadership, theology, religious studies, humanities, multimedia, and new technology.