Navigating Change

Navigating Change: The Power of a Clear Goal and a Weekly Battle Rhythm

Written by: Jason Thibodeaux

Change can be challenging, especially in a fast-paced environment. At one of my previous commands in the Navy, we had recently undergone significant changes in our processes, and I've learned firsthand how crucial it is to have a clear goal and a structured approach to lead the team through these transitions. What we discovered over time was that our weekly flow did not allow the team to get after bigger problems earlier in the week. We had smaller meetings during the week, but the first time the entire team gathered was on Thursday.

To ensure everyone was aligned and adaptable, we needed to restructure the weekly battle rhythm. This consistent meeting cadence became our cornerstone for communication, collaboration, and accountability. Each week, we gathered to discuss our progress, address challenges, and celebrate wins, no matter how small.

For example, when we introduced a new project management tool, our new weekly flow allowed us to share feedback and troubleshoot issues in real-time. Rather than feeling overwhelmed by the shift, the team felt empowered to voice their concerns and suggest improvements. This not only fostered a culture of open dialogue but also reinforced our collective goal: to enhance our efficiency and collaboration.

By anchoring our change management efforts in this regular rhythm, we transformed uncertainty into a shared mission. It helped us stay focused on our objectives and, ultimately, made the transition smoother and more successful.

As we continue to adapt and grow, I’m reminded that while change is never easy, having a clear goal and a structured approach can make the journey a lot more manageable. Let’s keep pushing forward together!

Key Takeaways

• A clear goal helps anchor your team during transitions.

• Weekly battle rhythms are vital for proactive communication and alignment.

• Early-week team alignment can uncover and address challenges faster.

• Structured cadences foster psychological safety and accountability.

• Change feels less overwhelming when people have space to contribute and adapt.

Action Steps

1. Evaluate your current meeting cadence. Does it support early problem-solving and team-wide alignment?
2. Establish a weekly rhythm. Make space for whole-team check-ins before the week is nearly over.
3. Clarify the mission. Ensure every meeting reinforces the team’s shared goal.
4. Invite feedback. Use your structure to empower open dialogue and real-time problem solving.
5. Celebrate wins. Even small victories build momentum and reinforce positive change.