Change Fatigue Is Real—and It’s Usually a Communication Gap

“People don’t like change” is a common explanation. But more often, people don’t like uncertainty, inconsistency, and changes that feel disconnected from a clear purpose.

What change fatigue really is

Change fatigue happens when teams experience:

• frequent adjustments without explanation

• unclear expectations

• inconsistent messaging

• shifting priorities

• new initiatives without visible leadership ownership

Over time, that creates exhaustion and cynicism. People stop engaging—not because they don’t care, but because they don’t trust that the change will stick or that anyone will support it.

Why it matters for co-ops

Co-ops face constant pressure: retirements, technology, storms, staffing changes, and evolving expectations. Teams can handle a surprising amount of change when leadership provides clarity and stability.

The difference between healthy change and exhausting change is often communication: the “why,” the direction, and what leadership is committed to reinforcing.

When leaders communicate change clearly, teams feel steadier—and performance stays stronger even during transition.