The House of Change
- Johanna Wegner
- Nov 3
- 4 min read
Method Monday: The House of Change – Understanding Emotions and Dynamics in Change Processes
Change is rarely comfortable – but it’s a natural part of growth. Whether at work, in teams, or in our personal lives, every transition stirs something within us. Between security and uncertainty, holding on and letting go, we move through inner phases that challenge us – and help us grow. The House of Change makes these emotional and psychological dynamics visible and shows how we can understand, accept, and actively shape change.
What is the House of Change?
The House of Change, developed by Swedish psychologist Claes F. Janssen, describes four rooms that people typically move through when confronted with change. Each room represents an emotional state, an attitude, and a particular way of responding to change.
The model emphasizes that change is not a linear process. We move between rooms, sometimes pause, step back, or move forward – depending on how emotionally engaged we are. In coaching, the House of Change provides a clear framework to identify where someone currently stands and to offer the right kind of support for that phase.
In addition to the four main rooms, the model describes extensions that illustrate extreme manifestations of individual phases – such as the dungeon of rejection, the paralysis basement, or the sun balcony.
The Four Rooms – and Their Extensions
1. The Room of Self-Satisfaction
In this room, people feel secure, competent, and balanced. Everything seems to be working well, and change appears unnecessary. Yet, those who stay in this comfort zone for too long risk missing opportunities or necessary developments.
The Sun Balcony symbolizes this comfort zone – a pleasant place where change feels unnecessary. But too much comfort can lead to stagnation.
Typical emotions: contentment, calm, security
Typical statements: “Why should we change anything?” “It has always worked this way.”
2. The Room of Denial
When change is announced, many people initially react with resistance. Skepticism, frustration, or rejection dominate this phase. The new is perceived as a threat because the familiar feels safer.
If resistance intensifies, it can lead down to the Dungeon of Rejection – an emotionally charged space filled with anger, frustration, or resignation.
Typical emotions: anger, fear, frustration
Typical statements: “That’s not a good idea.” “I’m not going along with this.”
3. The Room of Confusion
In this room, it becomes clear: the old no longer works, and the new isn’t yet stable. Feelings of disorientation, uncertainty, and sometimes exhaustion characterize this transition phase. It’s uncomfortable – but essential.
Some people remain here too long and end up on the Paralysis Basement – observing from a distance without taking action. Progress comes to a halt.
Typical emotions: uncertainty, doubt, sadness
Typical statements: “I don’t know what to do anymore.” “Everything feels chaotic right now.”
4. The Room of Renewal
In the fourth room, the new is accepted and integrated. People rediscover possibilities, develop ideas, and begin to act. Energy, confidence, and motivation return – change becomes a conscious decision.
Typical emotions: hope, enthusiasm, curiosity
Typical statements: “I understand why this is important.” “Let’s get started.”
The House of Change in Coaching
In Individual Coaching
The House of Change helps to make emotional change processes visible and tangible. Coaches use it to help clients recognize where they are in the process and understand which emotions dominate that space. This awareness fosters acceptance, confidence, and personal responsibility. Through reflection and resource-focused work, transitions between rooms become more conscious – at an individual pace and with emotional clarity.
In Team Coaching
In team settings, the House of Change helps create a shared understanding of how differently people experience change. By visualizing where each team member stands, teams can see the diversity of emotional states – perhaps someone is still in the Basement of Rejection, while others are already creating in the Room of Renewal.
This understanding builds empathy, improves communication, and helps leaders provide the right kind of support. Change becomes a shared journey instead of a forced process.
Why the House of Change Is So Powerful
The House of Change combines emotional depth with clear structure. It shows that change is not a purely rational event but an emotional process that requires awareness and support.
The model helps normalize resistance as a natural human response to uncertainty. By recognizing where we – or our teams – currently stand, we move from helplessness to self-efficacy.
In coaching, the House of Change becomes a resonance space for growth:
Emotions are acknowledged and integrated.
Transitions are consciously shaped.
Change becomes understandable rather than overwhelming.
It’s a tool that connects head and heart – and supports sustainable transformation.
Who Can Benefit from This Method?
Coaches guiding individuals through change
Leaders supporting teams in transformation
Teams wanting to navigate change more effectively
Individuals experiencing personal or professional transitions
Conclusion
The House of Change is more than a theoretical model – it’s a map for transformation. It helps people recognize emotional patterns, understand inner dynamics, and see change as a process that enables development. Those who recognize which “room” they’re currently in can approach change with greater clarity, confidence, and inner balance.
Would you like to understand which “room” you or your team are currently in – and how to move forward with clarity and purpose? I’ll be happy to accompany you on your journey through the House of Change.
Yours, Johanna
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