Wired to Resist: The Brain Science of Why Change Fails and a New Model for Driving Success

Every year failed change costs billions of dollars. We are biologically wired to resist change: it's the key to our survival and the obstacle that often gets in the way of us fulfilling our potential. Wired to Resist provides a new understanding of our biology and why change fails, despite our best plans. In this fully revised and expanded second edition, Dr. Andreatta synthesizes the latest research into a model for change that harnesses the power of neuroscience and shows you how to thrive and lead through all kinds of change.

Whether you are on the leading or receiving end of change, you'll find useful tips and strategies you can implement today. The truth is that change affects us every day, both at work and at home, so I synthesize my research into practical takeaways to use anywhere they're needed. Knowing how we are wired to resist change and, more importantly, how to overcome that resistance to become more adaptive and resilient will serve you throughout your life.

This new edition is born from consulting with global organizations on change. It includes several new chapters on the main drivers of changes and pressing issues challenging organizations of all sizes, including technology and artificial intelligence (AI), the growing impact of change fatigue and burnout, the environment and climate change, and shifting workforce demographics pushing organizations to become more purpose-driven. It also includes a greatly expanded section for senior leaders with updated strategies for these modern times. There is new chapter on mergers and acquisitions (M&As) after interviewing several executives who played a central role in some of the biggest deals of the past few years with Nestlé, Microsoft, Amazon, Starbucks, McDonnell Douglas Aerospace, T-Mobile, and Cisco.

This 2nd edition is organized into seven sections:

I. We'll begin by understanding what change looks like in today's organizations.

II. Next, we'll dive into the brain science of change and why it drives fear, fatigue, and burnout.

III. Then I'll introduce you to the new Change Quest model that synthesizes all the findings into an effective framework you can apply to changes of all kinds.

IV. This section offers tips and strategies for employees to successfully navigate change as well as for managers who are responsible for leading others through change.

V. Then we'll explore the four big drivers of change and how they impact organizations where you work, as well as others you engage with as a customer or community member.

VI. This section focuses on several strategies and best practices for executives and senior leaders to prepare you factors that will drive change in your organization for years to come.

VII. We'll end with some final thoughts on change, you'll synthesize your learning journeys, and I'll share my acknowledgments as well as the references for every study I mention.

Throughout, you will find stories about change, first-person narratives from 20 individuals who represent a wide range of industries, as diverse as finance, manufacturing, hospitality, education, technology, and healthcare. Each person tells their own story of moving through a change journey, some of which were smooth and successful while others were filled with struggle.