Self as Instrument

Self As Instrument (SAi) is the title of a skill set that the organization change profession commonly refers to. Skillful practitioners use these to organize a multitude of dynamics that can enhance change processes. The skill set is based on systems theory that asserts that the productive use of the self has the capacity to effectively influence the larger system. It is an especially important skill set for change practitioners to possess because they guide the client and the group through the unavoidable turbulence that organization change creates. Skillful use of the self can improve change processes in the design, implementation and sustaining processes of organization change. The specific skills that make up this concept, SAi, are vast. It includes both intra-personal and inter-personal skills as well as cognitive and affective skills.

SAi is a fundamental key to managing organization change

Within each person resides the sacred territory that they are unconsciously protecting. When changes occur externally their well guarded perceptions, habits or behaviors are impacted. It can be unsettling. With the great changes occuring in our culture and economy today almost everyone's comfort zone needs to be better managed.

Learning how to broaden the comfort zone is a fundamental SAi key skill for personally managing organization change. It took a lifetime to create this unconscious skill set, yet we don't even know exists. It takes gradual, incremental steps to consciously begin opening to new coping abilities. In other words, it takes continual practice and a regular rhythm of practice to begin making the changes. Eventually these new patterns become an unconscious mindset that is better equipped to deal with changes, whether personal or professional.

Models similar to SAi

There are many other models that are similar to SAi. Each unveils more understanding to either the intra personal or the inter personal skills use by the Self. To name just a few of these models a brief list follows:

1. Self Differentiation


2. SAI for Organization Diagnosis


3. Johari Window


4. Helping Skills


5. Emotional Intelligence
   

f you are interested in self as instrument coaching please contact Anna Gomez. She has worked with a wide range of professionals: from international executives to line staff; from global corporations to non profits; from social service agencies to military suppliers. Linking your most essential self to your greatest concerns can create dynamic progress. The cost of your first session is free. Dr. Anna Gomez Terra Firma: Grounded Change http://www.groundedchange.com/GroundedChange@gmail.com