Bridges Transition Model - Free Template

The template maps the three phases of the Bridges model with the emotional and psychological characteristics of each. You'll find what people typically experience at each phase, what leaders can do to support them, and how the phases overlap - so different people can be in different places at the same time. Use it when planning a change initiative to think through the human side alongside the operational plan. It pairs well with our approach to culture change, where understanding how people experience transition is central to making change work.

Don't skip the Endings. Leaders often want to jump straight to New Beginnings, but people need time to process what they are leaving behind. Rushing past this stage stores up resistance for later.

The Neutral Zone is where the real work happens. It feels uncomfortable and unproductive, but this is where people let go of old assumptions and start to see new possibilities. Protect this space rather than trying to shortcut it.

People move at different speeds. Some will reach New Beginnings while others are still in Endings. Recognising this avoids the frustration of expecting everyone to be in the same place at the same time.