Why Real Action Matters

Make change. Not plans. Transformation programs depend on getting things done in the real world, rather than in PPT only. Why is it so hard to do the real thing? Because the human mind is designed so that intention and action block each other. Sounds astonishing?

The Science Behind Intention and Action

Not to Julius Kuhl, one of the greatest theoretical psychologists of our time. His PSI theory is a bit like psychology’s first law of thermodynamics, explaining what makes people (not things) hot enough to get moving: Good mood triggers natural, intuitive action but blocks future planning, whereas neutral mood does the opposite.

Mood Cycles and Effective Execution

Now, you can only be in good or in neutral mood, which is why intention and action block each other. You must cycle between happy and so-so to first become planful, then execute the plan, then go back to the drawing board, and so on.

Program Management: Managing Mood for Success

What does this mean for program management? Effective program management requires tuning the project atmosphere to support your current need. Happy is not good if there is no plan. So-so (or negative) mood is bad for action, because without intuition, people usually act less skillfully.

Why Atmosphere Management Boosts Results

Why is it so important to actively manage atmosphere? Research shows that keeping plans in mind frustrates people: Ever made New Year’s resolutions and found yourself in bad mood on Jan 1? This means that the so-so mood during planning self-stabilizes, and it takes a mood nudge to help project members get to action.

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