Leading Change: The 5 Tensions

Tim Arnold has spent over two decades helping leaders manage complexity, increase resilience, and deliver results within organizations such as the United Nations, Compassion International, Royal Bank of Canada, Allstate Insurance, Toyota, and Siemens. His popular book, Lead with AND, focuses on helping leaders unleash the superpower of "Both/And" thinking in an "Either/Or" world.

Let’s face it, most change initiatives divide and disappoint. Opposition and confusion are common, making the process feel like an uphill battle. But there’s hope!

While others mistakenly take an Either/Or approach to change, you’re going to learn to embrace the power of Both/And thinking, transforming resistance into resilience and division into unity.

• Embrace innovation AND consistency to integrate new strategies while preserving what works.
• Validate facts AND feelings to highlight the benefits of change while addressing concerns head-on.
• Focus on the short term AND the long term to seize immediate opportunities while maintaining core values.
• Promote planning AND action to encourage thorough preparation while executing and learning as you go.
• Value complexity AND simplicity to welcome deep understanding while creating clear action steps that are easy to communicate and follow.

This book does not claim to provide you with silver-bullet solutions; instead, it offers something much more valuable: a practical, actionable plan. By implementing the strategies outlined in this playbook, you will lead your team through change with confidence and clarity.
Change doesn’t have to be a source of stress and overwhelm. Gain the confidence and competence needed to embrace change as an adventure.


“Leading Change is an indispensable guide for anyone looking to navigate the complexities of transformation in today’s fast-paced world. This is a game-changer for anyone committed to making a lasting impact.”

Martin McNamara (Head of Partner Development & Engagement Specsavers)

“Leading Change is a clear and concise read that is packed with actionable solutions to complex business problems. Tim provides a unique perspective to common leadership challenges with his concept of healthy tension and Both/And thinking.”

Jill Dupuis (VP, Operations, North America, Pacific Life Re)