Leading Change & Personal Transformation

I met Deron Lespoir on June 14th, 2024 — just over a month ago at a Zero Day at Hygge Coworking. By day, he is a seasoned change management expert with over 14 years of experience. Beyond his professional role, Deron is deeply committed to practices that enhance personal growth and performance, including Sadhguru’s teachings, meditation, and clear thinking. Our podcast conversation, recorded on July 19th, 2024, delves into his dual expertise. This article is organized into two sections: professional lessons and personal transformation insights, providing a comprehensive look at Deron’s unique approach to both career and personal development.

What is Change Management?

Organizational Change Management (OCM) is a structured approach to transitioning individuals, teams, and organizations from a current state to a desired future state. It involves the application of tools, processes, and techniques to manage the people side of change to achieve a required business outcome. OCM is essential for the success of any change initiative, as it helps to minimize disruption, maximize employee engagement, and ensure that the desired outcomes are achieved. In our talk, Deron focuses on one of several aspects of Change, Training and Development.

Here are the other key aspects of OCM:

1. Assessing the Change Impact.

2. Stakeholder Analysis and Engagement.

3. Communication Planning.

4. Resistance Management.

5. Change Implementation.

6. Monitoring and Evaluation.

7. Sustainability and Reinforcement.

Five Change Management Lessons

1. Understanding the Role of a Change Management Leader

Deron’s career in change management began as a trainer, where he quickly learned the importance of bridging the gap between complex systems and the people who use them. He explains, “Organizations invest millions of dollars in new technologies to streamline their business processes, but without ensuring their people understand and embrace these changes, they can’t realize the full return on investment.” This analogy of buying a Lamborghini without knowing how to use it effectively, maintain it, analyze its impact and readiness of ownership among many other important planning and strategy activities, perfectly encapsulates the necessity of his role: ensuring that employees are equipped and motivated to leverage new systems and business processes effectively.

2. The Power of Empathy and Active Listening

One of Deron’s most profound lessons is the transformative power of empathy, active listening, and taking immediate, thoughtful action based on feedback. He shares a formative experience from his early days working in an emergency room, where he learned that actively listening to patients and taking measures, however small, to alleviate their discomfort significantly reduced their anxiety and pain.

“In change management, you’re often dealing with individuals who may be resistant or fearful of change,” Deron explains. “By genuinely listening to their concerns, taking actionable steps to address their needs, and communicating with empathy, you can significantly reduce their resistance.”

Deron consistently applies this approach, engaging with team members at all levels of the organization. He emphasizes that empathy is not merely about understanding others’ feelings but about actively demonstrating that their input and experiences are valued. When executed correctly, this practice builds trust and fosters a collaborative environment, making it easier for people to embrace change.

3. Authentic Communication: A Crucial Tool

Authentic communication stands as a cornerstone of Deron’s approach to change management. He underscores the significance of being genuine and transparent when discussing changes. “People can sense when you’re not being authentic. If they perceive that you’re being dishonest or withholding information, it fosters mistrust and resistance.”

Deron advocates integrating authentic communication into all interactions, and not just in the workplace. This practice can involve simple yet impactful actions, such as initiating friendly conversations with strangers, engaging in meaningful small talk, and attentively listening to feedback. By demonstrating genuine interest and honesty, leaders can build stronger, more trusting relationships.

This approach highlights that authenticity is not a one-time effort but a continuous practice. By consistently showing transparency and sincerity, leaders can effectively mitigate resistance to change and foster a supportive atmosphere for transformation.

4. Managing Time and Priorities

Effective change management hinges on efficient time and priority management. Deron underscores the importance of concentrating on high-value activities while minimizing time spent on unproductive tasks. “If a meeting isn’t beneficial or doesn’t require your input, politely excuse yourself and use that time for more productive work,” he advises.

Deron’s disciplined approach to time management is a cornerstone of his success. By focusing on key priorities and avoiding unnecessary distractions, he consistently meets deadlines and stays within budget. His meticulous time management has earned him respect and trust from clients and colleagues alike. “Your ability to manage time and priorities is crucial to your effectiveness as a change management leader,” he asserts.

5. Building a Structured Routine

A well-structured routine is crucial for achieving and maintaining peak physical performance, mental clarity, and emotional stability, especially in demanding roles like change management. Deron starts his day at 3:30 AM, including weekends, with a regimen that includes prayer, meditation, yoga, physical exercise, sunbathing, two meals (midday and before sunset) and limited exposure to electronic devices. This comprehensive routine not only sets the stage for a productive day but also supports a fulfilling and well-balanced life.

“It took me years to develop a routine that works for me, but now it’s something I can’t live without,” Deron shares. He encourages others to develop their own routines, even if it means starting small and gradually building consistency. Make consistency the goal. “The right routine not only enhances your productivity but also enhances your overall well-being.”

Three Personal Transformation Lessons

1. Achieve Authenticity with an Advisor’s (or Your Mom’s) Guidance

2. Finish your creative process before getting feedback

3. Learn from everyone, and even from ants to pay attention to small details

Looking Ahead: A Vision for the Future

Deron’s vision extends beyond individual projects and organizations. Inspired by a visit to Guyana, he aims to have a broader social and environmental impact. He envisions a future where his talents and expertise can contribute to large-scale transformations, addressing issues like waste management and sustainable development.

“I realized that I can provide value on a much bigger scale than I had been doing. It’s about using my skills to make a meaningful difference in the world,” he reflects. This long-term vision underscores the importance of setting ambitious goals and continuously striving for personal and professional growth.

Conclusion

I am convinced that Deron Lespoir’s insights into change management offer valuable lessons for leaders and organizations navigating the complexities of transformation. By embracing empathy, active listening, authentic communication, efficient time management, and a structured routine, we can transform ourselves and our organizations. Meeting Deron was an enlightening experience, and I hope you find as much value in his insights as I have.