L11. Learn to Bend – Coach and Practice
This behaviour develops a leader’s flexibility to adapt plans while protecting core principles.
Behaviour focus
Strong spine, flexible joints.
Purpose
To keep moving forward when conditions change, without losing integrity.
| Action Steps | Key Questions | Practice |
| Name the non-negotiables. | What must not change, even if the plan does? | Write three principles that will hold, then share them with the team. |
| Create plans B and C. | What are credible alternatives that still meet the aim? | Run a 15 minute pre-mortem, list likely obstacles, and script two adjustments. |
| Decide with thresholds. | When will we switch paths? | Set trigger points for change, such as a date or data, and communicate them now. |
| Model calm pivoting. | How will I communicate change without drama? | Practise a short update that explains the reason, effect, and next steps, and then deliver it to the team. |