There are five Archetypes of Change that people and organizations may take, depending on the situation. They affect the extent to which the organization can truly be on the leading edge.
These Archetypes of Change are based on two factors: (1) Relationship to time, and (2) Relationship to change.
1. Edgewalker
Edgewalkers are people who walk between worlds and have the ability to build bridges between different worlds. They have a strong inner life and are very grounded and effective in the everyday external world. This orientation looks to the future and is focused on openness to possibilities.
2. Flamekeeper
Flamekeepers are those people who keep the original vision and values of the organization or community system alive. They keep wise council and are focused on what is best about the past and preserving the core values. This orientation is open to change while using experience to honor what has worked in the past.
3. Hearthtender
Hearthtenders are the people who get the day-to-day work of the organization done and who are focused on serving others. They keep things running smoothly, maintaining a sense of family, community or team in their workplace. This orientation is focused on the present with a moderate openness to change, content to keep things as they are unless the change brings more efficient or less stressful work conditions.
4. Placeholder
Placeholders provide stability and predictability to the organization. They are the keepers of the boundaries and can keep an organization from going over the edge. They tend to resist change for the sake of change and are comfortable with routine.
5. Guardian
Guardians are the people who look to the future and tend to see all the things that could potentially be a problem. They have a gift for analyzing and/or sensing what could go wrong before it happens. They are committed to protecting people and the organization from potential harm. This orientation is focused on the future but often is fearful of or resistant to that future.
