How many times have we seen politicians or business leaders talk about change? Dozens, maybe even hundreds of times. Yet how many of them take steps to make change happen?

It’s easy to talk about change but much more difficult to make change happen. In organizations, new leaders who promise change arrive with great fanfare and panache. Speeches are made and initiatives begun, only to inevitably fade into impotent obscurity. Until the next leader arrives touting the New Big Idea, when the cycle repeats. Sustainable change requires persistence, skill and hard work. To make a lasting change in any workplace environment, you need the tools for change:

1. Address resistance before it occurs

2. Realize it’s not leaders who make change happen, it’s people

3. Stay close to friends and even closer to enemies

4. Be comfortable with being uncomfortable

5. Be honest, especially with yourself

Dr. Gary Bradt is one of today’s most popular speakers on the leadership circuit, addressing corporate audiences around the world on the issue of change and success. His clients include IBM, General Motors, American Express, General Electric, eBay, FedEx and NASA. Dr. Bradt’s new book, “The Ring In the Rubble: Dig Through Change and Find Your Next Golden Opportunity,” (McGraw-Hill).