Combustion is the Key

When you light a fire (or a candle), that’s combustion.

The process goes like this.

Ignition: Heat starts the process. When enough heat is applied to a suitable fuel source and oxygen, the fuel and oxygen molecules get excited and start moving faster, increasing the likelihood of colliding with enough energy to react.

The Bonds Break: With enough heat (energy), the molecular bonds within the fuel molecules start to break, releasing smaller, reactive components (such as free radicals). These free radicals are highly reactive and drive the combustion reactions forward.

Go, free radicals!

Chain Reaction: If you keep things going, you will have a chain reaction. The newly released heat causes more fuel to reach its ignition point, breaking more bonds and creating more free radicals, which continue to feed the reaction.

Self-Sustenance: At this point, the process is self-sustaining, meaning it no longer requires an external heat source. The heat generated keeps the fuel and oxygen at or above the ignition temperature, allowing combustion to continue as long as there is sufficient fuel and oxygen.

If you’re in sales, you’re in the combustion business. You must ensure the necessary fuel and oxygen are present and bring the heat. I’m sure you get the point. Breaking old bonds, creating excitement, feeding the flames . . . that’s your job.

The same thinking applies if you’re trying to drive organizational change. What is the fuel you need? What will give your change enough oxygen to start and sustain? What is the source of ignition?

The opposite is also true. Anxiety, worry, fear, hatred . . . that’s also combustion. Reverse the process.?

Stop feeding those flames.