When ‘No’ Feels Like a Threat: Navigating Power Struggles in HR Transformation Projects

In high-stakes HR transformation projects, even the most rational proposals can provoke emotional outbursts—especially when power dynamics shift. This article explores the psychology behind resistance from senior stakeholders, drawing on a real but anonymized incident where a boundary-setting conversation led to unexpected aggression. Learn how to navigate these challenges with emotional intelligence, clear frameworks, and strategies rooted in organizational psychology.