Creating a genuine sense of urgency is fundamental to successful change. Kotter explains how leaders must move beyond complacency by helping others see both the threats and opportunities that make change essential, while avoiding the trap of false urgency that creates anxiety without productive action.

Change initiatives require strong guiding coalitions and clear communication channels. The book details how to assemble the right team of change agents, develop a compelling vision, and communicate it effectively across all organizational levels to create buy-in and sustained momentum.

Long-term success depends on anchoring new approaches in the organizational culture. Kotter demonstrates how to make changes stick by connecting new behaviors to corporate success, developing change-capable leadership, and ensuring that transformations become part of the organization's DNA.