In Gleicher's Change Equation, what does D stand for?

• A. Dissatisfaction with the status quo
• B. Vision for change
• C. First steps toward the vision
• D. Resistance to change

Answer: (A)

D stands for Dissatisfaction with the status quo. In Gleicher's Change Equation, change happens when the combined push from feeling that the current situation is unacceptable, along with a clear vision for a better future and concrete first steps, is strong enough to overcome resistance. Dissatisfaction is the motivational force that makes people want to move away from how things are now. If the current state doesn’t feel problematic, even a good vision and an action plan won’t spark change. The other elements provide direction (the vision) and practical steps (the first steps), while resistance is the counterforce that must be exceeded for change to take hold.