Supportive environments are critical for change from "summary" of Immunity to Change by Robert Kegan,Lisa Laskow Lahey
Creating supportive environments is not just a nice-to-have feature when it comes to making changes in our lives. It is actually a critical component that can make or break our success in breaking free from our immunity to change. Without a supportive environment, we are like seeds trying to grow in barren soil - no matter how hard we try, we won't be able to flourish. Supportive environments provide us with the necessary conditions to thrive and grow. They offer us the encouragement, resources, and guidance we need to navigate the challenges that inevitably arise when we try to change. Without this support, we are left to fend for ourselves, which can be overwhelming and discouraging. In a supportive environment, we are surrounded by people who believe in us and our ability to change. They provide us with positive feedback, constructive criticism, and a sense of accountability that motivates us to keep going, even when the going gets tough. This support helps us stay on track and reminds us that we are not alone in our journey towards change. Supportive environments also offer us a safe space to experiment, make mistakes, and learn from our failures. Instead of being punished or judged for our missteps, we are encouraged to reflect, adjust, and try again. This freedom to explore and take risks is essential for growth and development, as it allows us to push past our comfort zones and discover new possibilities.- Supportive environments act as a nurturing greenhouse for change, providing us with the protection, nourishment, and encouragement we need to overcome our immunity to change. Without this critical support system, our efforts to transform ourselves will likely wither and die. So, if we truly want to break free from our old patterns and habits, we must cultivate an environment that is conducive to growth and transformation.