For change activists in organizations, pushing past the status quo can feel like an uphill battle.

It’s easy for teams and individuals to fall into the comfort of routine, relying on the “this is how we’ve always done it” mindset. Challenging this inertia can be intimidating, and yes, frustrating.

But meaningful change doesn’t come from staying comfortable; it’s a result of intentional, strategic actions that disrupt the norm to make way for improvement.

Here’s how to push past the status quo strategically and effectively.

1. Start with “Why?”

When initiating any change, start with the why.

Why is this change necessary? Why now? And how does it connect to the broader goals of the organization?

Getting clear on the purpose behind the change makes it easier to communicate and rally others around it.

Understanding and articulating the “why” also creates a compelling narrative that shifts the conversation from “We need to change because this isn’t working” to “We need to change because there’s a better way.”

That positive framing can make a significant difference in influencing others, especially in a world where fear of change is real.

2. Leverage small wins

One of the most powerful ways to create momentum for change is to aim for small, achievable wins.

These quick wins demonstrate the potential impact of the change on a smaller scale without overwhelming the team or organization. By showcasing the success of these smaller steps, you can build credibility and enthusiasm for broader initiatives.

Consider testing a new idea in a pilot project or a single team. Once it shows results, share the story and encourage others to replicate the approach. The goal is to let people experience the benefits of change firsthand, building trust and buy-in for larger-scale efforts.

Maybe experiment with a MVP approach (check out Lean Startup)?

3. Cultivate curiosity

Curiosity fuels change.

Encouraging curiosity within your organization helps people question processes, identify improvement areas, and explore alternatives.

Creating an environment that encourages exploration—whether through workshops, brainstorming sessions, or even informal discussions—opens the door to innovative ideas and fosters a willingness to consider new ways of working.

As a change activist, model curiosity yourself. Ask thoughtful questions, and approach problems with a learner’s mindset. This attitude not only fosters a culture of growth but also shows others that curiosity is valuable and welcomed, not a threat to established practices.

4. Use Systems Thinking

Systems thinking allows us to look at an organization as a set of interconnected parts rather than isolated silos.

By understanding the bigger picture and how various parts of the system interact, you can make more strategic decisions about where and how to drive change. This approach also helps you anticipate and mitigate unintended consequences of the changes you introduce.

When advocating for a change, explain how it fits into the overall organizational ecosystem. Describe how the proposed change will positively affect different areas, contributing to the organization’s broader goals. This holistic perspective helps counter resistance by showing that you’re not just focused on isolated fixes but on sustainable, long-term improvement.

5. Embrace empathy and listen

Change can be uncomfortable, especially for those who feel that the status quo has served them well.

Empathy is critical for understanding where this resistance comes from and addressing it effectively. Take the time to listen to others’ perspectives, understand their concerns, and incorporate their feedback into your plans when possible.

Listening isn’t just a way to earn trust; it’s also an opportunity to learn.

Often, resistance to change highlights valid concerns or blind spots. By acknowledging, and addressing these concerns, you can create a stronger, more resilient change initiative that considers multiple perspectives.

6. Communicate consistently and transparently

People are more likely to support change when they understand what’s happening, why it matters, and how it affects them.

Consistent, transparent communication helps reduce uncertainty and keeps people aligned. Share your vision clearly, provide updates regularly, and be honest about both the successes and the setbacks.

Transparency builds trust, and trust is crucial for navigating change. When people see that you’re open and accountable, they’re more likely to feel secure in following your lead, even when the changes are challenging.

7. Be resilient and persistent

Pushing past the status quo is rarely a smooth journey. There will be setbacks, resistance, and moments of doubt.

Building change that sticks requires resilience and persistence. Remember that meaningful change doesn’t happen overnight, and a single setback doesn’t mean failure.

Stay focused on the larger vision and keep moving forward, even when progress feels slow.

Celebrate progress and acknowledge the hard work of those involved in driving the change. Recognizing and rewarding small victories can keep the team motivated and reinforce the idea that pushing past the status quo is worthwhile.

8. Lead by example

Change is easier to embrace when people see it embodied in their leaders.

As a change activist, show your commitment to the change through your own actions and behaviors. Adopt the new practices, hold yourself accountable to the standards you’re advocating, and demonstrate the benefits of the changes you’re championing.

Leading by example doesn’t just inspire others; it also shows that you’re not asking anyone to do something you wouldn’t do yourself.

Authenticity and commitment from leadership are among the strongest signals that change is both necessary and achievable.

Pushing past status quo: A call to action

For change activists, pushing past the status quo isn’t just about shaking things up—it’s about making things better.

Strategic change isn’t disruptive for the sake of it; it’s driven by purpose, empathy, and a clear vision for improvement. By focusing on small wins, leveraging curiosity, and cultivating resilience, you can create sustainable change that not only moves the organization forward but also inspires those around you to embrace the journey.

So keep questioning, keep listening, and keep pushing past the status quo. With a clear strategy and a commitment to meaningful improvement, even the most ingrained practices can be transformed for the better.