---
title: "Futurist on Change: Human Resistance to \"Different\" Versus Curiosity for \"Better\""
description: Discover insights from futurist Anders Sorman-Nilsson on embracing innovation by framing change as improvement rather than disruption. Learn how to inspire meaningful progress in your organization.
image: https://www.anderssorman-nilsson.com/hubfs/240228_Anders-131474.jpeg
---

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# Decoding Tomorrow: Futurism and Foresights Today

Foresights and ideas that expand minds and inspire a change of heart.

# Futurist on Change: Human Resistance to "Different" Versus Curiosity for "Better"

Posted by [Anders](https://www.anderssorman-nilsson.com/blog/author/anders) on February 1, 2025

![Anders](https://app.hubspot.com/settings/avatar/d614bfaf05c76fba53508b0a7f68214b)

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At the PSCU conference in Las Vegas, I shared a striking insight from a UC Berkeley study that highlights a fundamental truth about human behavior: *we resist the unfamiliar, but we embrace progress.*

The study posed two similar questions with vastly different results:

- “Would you propose a new idea if it meant doing **different** work?” → Only **37%** said yes.
- “Would you propose an idea if it meant doing **better** work?” → Suddenly, **87%** were on board.

The difference is staggering, but not surprising. Humans are wired for growth and purpose—not just change for change’s sake. This has major implications for how we think about innovation, digital transformation, and the future of work.

![Destination_Q_-6_MASTER](https://www.anderssorman-nilsson.com/hs-fs/hubfs/Destination_Q_-6_MASTER.jpg?width=2048&height=1152&name=Destination_Q_-6_MASTER.jpg)

### **Why People Fear "Different" But Embrace "Better"**

Organizations often struggle with change initiatives because they frame innovation as *disruption* rather than *improvement.* Employees resist new technologies, workflows, or strategies when they perceive them as unnecessary complexity. But when innovation is positioned as a way to enhance performance, simplify tasks, or create more meaningful work, adoption skyrockets.

This is especially relevant in today’s AI-driven world. The most successful digital transformations aren’t about forcing change—they’re about empowering people to do their best work.

### **How to Frame the Future of Work for Success**

As a leader, futurist, or innovator, consider how you introduce change within your organization:

✅ **Focus on purpose, not just process** – Show how new tools or approaches lead to more fulfilling and impactful work.  
✅ **Align technology with human potential** – AI and automation should enhance skills, not replace them.  
✅ **Reframe the conversation** – Instead of asking “How can we change?”, ask “How can we do better?”

### **The Future of Work: Inspired, Not Forced**

The lesson from the Berkeley study is clear: *People don’t fear progress. They fear pointless disruption.* If your organization wants to foster innovation, frame change as an opportunity to improve—not just a mandate to be different.

📢 *Want to bring these insights to your next event? As a futurist and keynote speaker, I help organizations decode the future, drive innovation, and inspire meaningful change. Let’s talk.* [**DM me for speaking and brand collaboration opportunities.**](mailto:anders@thinque.com)

 

 

 

 

 Topics: [Anders Sorman-Nilsson](https://www.anderssorman-nilsson.com/blog/topic/anders-sorman-nilsson), [Futurist](https://www.anderssorman-nilsson.com/blog/topic/futurist), [Sydney Futurist](https://www.anderssorman-nilsson.com/blog/topic/sydney-futurist)

![Anders](https://app.hubspot.com/settings/avatar/d614bfaf05c76fba53508b0a7f68214b)

### Written by [Anders](https://www.anderssorman-nilsson.com/blog/author/anders)

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