The Problem with Change: And the Essential Nature of Human Performance BY Ashley Goodall

In The Stability Paradox, leadership expert Ashley Goodall challenges the prevailing notion that constant disruption and change are essential for business growth and success. Drawing on his extensive experience leading HR at Deloitte and Cisco, Goodall argues that the relentless pursuit of change—whether through mergers, re-orgs, or new office layouts—often creates a turbulent work environment that undermines employee motivation, productivity, and overall performance.

Goodall introduces the concept of “life in the blender” to describe the perpetual cycle of upheaval that many employees face. He contends that the emphasis on continuous change not only fails to improve organizational outcomes but also exerts a significant psychological toll on workers. The ceaseless flux in people, processes, and priorities fosters uncertainty and disengagement, leaving employees feeling disoriented and demoralized.

In response, Goodall advocates for a shift towards stability as a core leadership strategy. He suggests that fostering team cohesion, using clear and honest communication instead of corporate jargon, sharing meaningful insights rather than superficial mission statements, and addressing only the genuinely broken aspects of the organization can create a more stable and supportive work environment.

The Stability Paradox offers a provocative rethinking of how leaders approach change, arguing that true progress comes not from constant disruption but from cultivating a stable and cohesive workplace. Goodall’s insights provide a blueprint for leaders seeking to create an environment where employees can thrive amidst stability rather than chaos.