Explore Quotes by John P. Kotter

Overcoming complacency is crucial at the start of any change process, and it often requires a little bit of surprise, something that grabs attention at more than an intellectual level. You need to surprise people with something that disturbs their view that everything is perfect.

Leadership defines what the future should look like, aligns people with that vision, and inspires them to make it happen despite the obstacles.

Valued achievements connect to people at a deeper level—and a deeper level can change behavior that is generally very difficult to change.

One of the most powerful forms of information is feedback on our own actions.

Never underestimate the power of the mind to disempower.

Never underestimate the power of a good story.

Analytical tools have their limitations in a turbulent world. These tools work best when parameters are known, assumptions are minimal, and the future is not fuzzy.

No vision issue today is bigger than the question of efficiency versus some combination of innovation and customer service.

Motivation is not a thinking word; it's a feeling word.

The heart of change is in the emotions.

What's really driving the boom in coaching, is this: as we move from 30 miles an hour to 70 to 120 to 180......as we go from driving straight down the road to making right turns and left turns to abandoning cars and getting motorcycles...the whole game changes, and a lot of people are trying to keep up, learn how not to fall.

We know that leadership is very much related to change. As the pace of change accelerates, there is naturally a greater need for effective leadership.

Great leaders understand that historical success tends to produce stable and inwardly focused organizations, and these outfits, in turn, reinforce a feeling of contentment with the status quo.

People are more inclined to be drawn in if their leader has a compelling vision. Great leaders help people get in touch with their own aspirations and then will help them forge those aspirations into a personal vision.

Effective leaders help others to understand the necessity of change and to accept a common vision of the desired outcome.

Commercial organisations that operate responsibly have benefitted by increased revenues of 682% compared to 166% for those that don't

Leadership produces change. That is its primary function

A leader needs enough understanding to fashion an intelligent strategy.

We learn best - and change - from hearing stories that strike a chord within us.

Without credible communication, and a lot of it, the hearts and minds of others are never captured.

Good communication does not mean that you have to speak in perfectly formed sentences and paragraphs. It isn't about slickness. Simple and clear go a long way.