Appreciating Differences - Jack Falt - Ottawa Area, Ontario, Canada

Return to Home Page

List of Articles by Jack Falt

Booklet Review by Jack Falt

Dunning, Dona, Navigating Workplace Change, Huntington Beach, CA: Telos Publications, 
2004, ISBN 0-9743751-5-2, 44 pp,  references.

Besides death and taxes, change is a constant in all of our lives, and some of us have to cope with more change than others do. The days of getting a job and then slowly moving through the ranks until they give you a pat on the back and a gold watch are something of the past. Understanding the processes we go through can make the transitions easier. Understanding that each temperament has its own way of coping adds another dimension to the process.

This booklet looks at what is involved in changes. There is a worksheet with a checklist of possible changes that may result from the new situation at work. Also are listed are changes that may occur in one’s personal life that can impact on one’s work situation.

Going through change is stressful even when the change is viewed as positive. It is important to acknowledge that change is occurring and that it is having an impact on you. With change you have to leave things behind. This creates a sense of loss. It is important to look at the big picture and see the opportunities that change brings about. When you can accept the change you can begin to move on and begin the process of adjustment.

This booklet assumes a basic understanding of temperament, summarising in point form a general description of each temperament. There are two pages devoted to how each temperament relates to change, including a chart that looks at each of the psychological types within each temperament. Then there are three pages devoted to helping each temperament cope with change.

As each temperament goes through the process of change, each has different needs. Artisans need the opportunity to perform, Guardians need to preserve, Rationals need to predict, and Idealists need to promote personal relationships. So those who are planning to bring in changes need to be aware of these needs. Also, each individual needs to be aware of their temperament and what that temperament requires. Each temperament has questions they want answered, and they have specific things they seek to help them through the process.

This booklet could be used as the basis for a general workshop on temperament and change. It also could be used in counselling situations as a handout to give to the clients.

Return to Home Page

List of Articles by Jack Falt