Accepted Quote by Robert Kegan
![“That 'change makes us uncomfortable' is now one of the most widely promoted, widely accepted, and under-considered half-truths around. [I]t is not change by itself that makes us uncomfortable; it is not even change that involves taking on something very difficult. Rather, it is change that leaves…” quote by Robert Kegan](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/aed/robert-kegan-23287_accepted_that-change-makes-us-uncomfortable-is-no_2750455.jpg)
“That 'change makes us uncomfortable' is now one of the most widely promoted, widely accepted, and under-considered half-truths around. [I]t is not change by itself that makes us uncomfortable; it is not even change that involves taking on something very difficult. Rather, it is change that leaves us feeling defenseless before the dangers we 'know' to be present that causes us anxiety.”
About This Quote
Source Book: In Over Our Heads, Robert Kegan, 1994
Discomfort comes not from change itself but from feeling vulnerable to known threats when change exposes them.
In simple terms: Change feels scary when it reveals hidden dangers.
Key Takeaway
Recognize and address underlying fears during change.
Themes
psychology
growth
anxiety
vulnerability
Mood
reflective
cautious
Type
insightful
motivational
When to use this quote
- career transitions
- personal relationships
- learning new skills
- health challenges
Key Concepts
developmental theory
emotional safety
Questions to Reflect On
- What hidden dangers does this change reveal?
- How can you build safety while adapting?
A Different Perspective
If the threats are unknown, the anxiety may be harder to pinpoint.
![“We have reached a situation where a theory has been accepted as fact by some, and possible contrary evidence is shunted aside. [This is] mythology rather than science.” quote by Robert Shapiro](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/c31/robert-shapiro-26969_accepted_we-have-reached-a-situation-where-a-theo_19120.jpg)
