Working in complex systems

If you have ever been told you are responsible for an entire business’s “conscience” or that you are “a thorn in our side (but the nice kind)” when working to change established norms, introduce new ways of thinking, or radically new ways of measuring success, I know how you feel.

It can be really hard to make your own personal changes, reflect on what matters to you, and want to ‘do better’ (whatever ‘better’ means to you). But it can be so much more difficult to do that on behalf of a business, industry, organisation or community. Often people in those systems have the best intentions and are motivated to consider working differently but when it comes to the hard decisions, don’t follow through. As someone responsible for delivering that change, you might experience a ‘stuckness’ like no other. You can see the opportunities, the wider benefit to others, the transformational impact systemic change can have, but there you are, remaining stuck.

If that sounds like something you are familiar with, within the structure of our coaching relationship, we can explore the system, the blockages, alternative approaches you may be able to take, and help you find a way through. We will also work on how to best employ your energy and explore the associated frustration that comes with being the one driving the change.

I bring my professional experience working in sustainability and complexity, as well as my MSt. in Sustainability Leadership from the University of Cambridge to my systems coaching practice.

If you would like to find out more about my approach and experience, just get in touch for a no-obligation introductory conversation.