The Art of Change - by Jeff Degraff & Staney Degraff (Paperback)

Book Synopsis

In a world of unprecedented disruption, mastering the art of change isn't just an advantage--it's essential for survival.

Drawing from decades of work with global organizations, military commanders, and NASA leaders, Jeff and Staney DeGraff reveal how true transformation emerges not from avoiding contradictions, but from embracing them.

This groundbreaking book, the third installation in their comprehensive innovation series, introduces a revolutionary framework for understanding and leveraging paradox. Through rich storytelling and battle-tested strategies, the DeGraffs unpack seven fundamental contradictions that define transformative growth:

How do we achieve more by doing less? Why does certainty often lead to failure, while embracing uncertainty paves the path to breakthrough? When does resistance become the catalyst for change? The Art of Change demonstrates how these seeming contradictions hold the key to profound transformation--both personally and professionally.

This isn't just another business book--it's a practical philosophy for navigating complexity in dynamic environments. Whether you're leading a Fortune 500 company, steering a non-profit through turbulent times, or seeking personal growth, you'll discover:

• A proven framework for turning obstacles into opportunities
• Practical tools for making better decisions in ambiguous situations
• Strategies for building resilience through embracing paradox
• Methods for driving innovation by challenging conventional wisdom
• Techniques for leading transformational change in any environment

The Art of Change completes a pioneering trilogy that establishes a comprehensive school of thought around innovation and transformation. Building on the foundations laid in their previous works, the DeGraffs provide their most sophisticated and nuanced exploration yet of how to drive meaningful change in complex systems.

Don't just manage change--master it. Learn how to transform paradoxes into breakthroughs and turn uncertainty into your greatest advantage. The Art of Change is your essential guide to navigating the contradictions that define our era and achieving lasting transformation in an increasingly fluid world.

Review Quotes

"The authors tell us not to fear paradox, but rather teach us to unpack the paradoxes we encounter, derive the guiding principles for navigating change, and apply these principles in the real world in powerful and effective ways."
--Clint HiNote, Former Deputy Chief of Staff, US Air Force, and Principal, Pallas Advisors

"In a world of almost unprecedented fluidity, effective change management is a core competency for survival, and the DeGraffs' supremely pragmatic 'user guide' provides an essential map for all those who seek to lead their enterprises to more relevant futures."
--Simon Woods, President and CEO, League of American Orchestras

"This work offers invaluable tools for navigating transformational change and is a special treat for leaders who love a deeper philosophy that underpins the practical methodologies of change."
--Dr. Atul Dhir, CEO, Principia Health

"Change is no easy feat; however, here the Degraffs reveal the psychology of change to provide an essential playbook for leaders to navigate transformation and win."
--Marcus Collins, Clinical Assistant Professor of Marketing, Ross School of Business, University of Michigan

"This book offers, through engaging stories and practical insights, a framework for developing a paradoxical mindset that embraces contradictions as catalysts for growth and innovation."
--Joe Byrum, CTO, Consilience AI

"As someone who has led large and complex organizations like NASA programs and missions during times of change, I deeply resonate with the principles in this work. It offers a powerful framework for navigating uncertainty and embracing paradoxes, making it an essential guide for any leader striving to drive innovation in dynamic environments."
--Thomas Zurbuchen, Associate Administrator, NASA

"This work will transform you, your relationships, your mindset, and your organization. This isn't a must read, it's a must DO!"
--Johnny Barnes, Colonel, US Air Force (Retired)

"What sets this book apart is not only its deep understanding of the paradoxes inherent in change but also its unique approach to transforming these contradictions into strategic breakthroughs, thereby proving to be an invaluable tool for anyone facing the complexities of today's constantly shifting landscape."
--Jorge Manresa, Executive Strategist

About the Author

Jeff DeGraff has been a professor, for 30+ years, at one of the leading business schools in the world, the Ross School of Business at the University of Michigan. Staney DeGraff and Jeff together run their consulting firm, Innovatrium, which offers education, training, and consulting to major corporate and government clients.