The Pain Pleasure Matrix
The Pain Pleasure Matrix is a simple four-box model used to encourage a balanced approach to change. By considering both the pros and cons of making the change and the pros and cons of not making the change, you get a well-rounded case for change that captures the important factors in a clear and simple way. It ultimately serves as motivation to engage in the change.
It prevents you from making the mistake of trying to “sell the change”, which often has the opposite effect of sparking cynicism and resistance. Instead, work with others in the organisation to talk about the downsides of making the change. And the upsides of staying with the current status quo.
Seems dangerous
You might feel that starting with the pain of change will reinforce potential resistance. That isn’t really the case. Those feelings will be there whether you talk about them or not. This brings potential barriers to change out into the open – making them easier to manage and overcome.
Starting with reasons not to change can help to neutralise negative people. They will feel heard for having had the opportunity to voice their concerns and as you start to explore the pleasure associated with making the change and the pains of not doing anything, they may start to feel more positive towards it.
Usually, the pain and pleasure of making the change will outweigh those of not making the change and the decision makes itself. That will in turn increase the likelihood of engagement.
Watch the Pain Pleasure Matrix videos
The Pain Pleasure Matrix is simple to use and it can deliver great results. It makes it a tool that we often use on when working on change programmes. We like it so much, that we have just released two videos on the topic.
The first video introduces the technique. It provides a brief overview of how it can be used and the benefits of using the Pain Pleasure Matrix.
In our second video we use the example of adopting hybrid-working to show how to use the technique, with suggested questions to help you facilitate your own sessions. We also show you how to best use the Pain Pleasure Matrix when working through a potential change on your own.