We explore why even highly capable, motivated clients can stay stuck despite knowing what they want to change. We introduce Robert Kegan and Lisa Lahey’s Immunity to Change model, which reveals how unconscious competing commitments can quietly block progress - not through resistance, but through self-protection.

The model is brought to life through a live example, as Sarah works through the four-column process and uncovers the hidden assumptions shaping her behaviour. The conversation shows how these protective patterns develop for good reasons, and how the model connects with Transactional Analysis ideas such as drivers, script beliefs, and discounting.

We offer practical guidance for coaches: work collaboratively, normalise competing commitments, and move slowly and carefully. It’s a thoughtful exploration for coaches who want to move beyond action planning and support deeper, more sustainable change.

Resources:

1. "The Real Reason People Won't Change" by Robert Kegan and Lisa Lahey (Harvard Business Review, 2001) – The original article that introduces the Immunity to Change framework.
2. The Immunity to Change Map – You can find versions of the four-column template online to use with your clients.
3. Transactional Analysis – For those interested in the connections we discuss between TA and this model, explore our previous episodes on psychological drivers, script beliefs, and discounting.