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Growth Quote by Michael Fullan

“Gaius Petronious nailed this problem almost two thousand years ago: We trained hard... but it seemed every time we were beginning to form up into teams we were reorganized. I was to learn later in life that we tend to meet any situation by reorganizing, and what a wonderful method it can be for…” quote by Michael Fullan
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““Gaius Petronious nailed this problem almost two thousand years ago: We trained hard... but it seemed every time we were beginning to form up into teams we were reorganized. I was to learn later in life that we tend to meet any situation by reorganizing, and what a wonderful method it can be for creating the illusion of progress while producing confusion, inefficiency, and demoralization.””

Michael Fullan

About This Quote

Source Book: "The New Meaning of Educational Change" by Michael Fullan, 1991

Frequent reorganizations create an illusion of progress but often lead to confusion and demoralization; true improvement requires stable, purposeful collaboration.

In simple terms: Constant change can mask real progress and cause chaos.

Key Takeaway

Seek stable, purposeful teamwork.

Themes

change management team dynamics organizational learning

Mood

analytical pragmatic cautious

Type

organizational educational

When to use this quote

  • corporate mergers
  • school reforms
  • nonprofit initiatives

Key Concepts

restructuring project cycles leadership strategies

Questions to Reflect On

  • What structures support genuine progress?
  • How can teams maintain morale during change?
A Different Perspective

May underestimate benefits of occasional restructuring.

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