How In-Between Moments Drive Successful Organizational Change

Organizations that rush through change miss critical opportunities for learning and growth.

In today's fast-paced business world, the pressure to move quickly often causes leaders to overlook the most critical moments of transformation. According to a new study published in The Journal of Applied Behavioral Science, the secret to successful change isn't just moving from point A to point B. It's how we handle the space in between.

Researchers Dr. Steven Cady and Sanjay Rishi identify these moments as "liminal spaces." In their article The Space in Between: Leveraging the Liminal Nature of Change, they argue that these pauses are not just empty gaps. They are vital opportunities for learning, adaptation and growth. By rushing through transitions, companies often undermine the very resilience and innovation they are trying to build.

The study introduces a practical framework that identifies seven specific pauses across three phases of change. The preliminal phase involves preparation. The liminal phase covers the actual transition period. The postliminal phase focuses on reintegration into the new reality. By making these moments visible, the research provides managers and practitioners with techniques to interrupt automatic reactions. This allows for more thoughtful decision-making and stronger employee engagement.

The impact of this research extends far beyond corporate boardrooms. As communities navigate rapid technological shifts and social transitions, the ability to skillfully hold uncertainty becomes essential. The study suggests that reframing uncertainty as a transformative space can lead to more compassionate and adaptive social systems. Cady and Rishi's work bridges the gap between complex behavioral science and everyday practice, offering a humane way to lead in an era of constant disruption.

The Space in Between is available via The Journal of Applied Behavioral Science.