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The Universal Theory of Change
Why do some attempts at change succeed — while others stall or fade away?
The Universal Theory of Change (UTC) offers a multidisciplinary lens through which to understand how change really happens, in individuals, teams, organisations, and systems.
Understand Change in Real Life, Not Just in Theory
Change is everywhere — in our minds, relationships, organisations, communities, and even our biology. But why do some changes take hold, while others stall or break down?
The Universal Theory of Change (UTC) is a multidisciplinary model designed to help us understand how and why change happens — or doesn’t.
Rooted in psychology, organisational science, physics, and philosophy, UTC offers a clear lens to navigate complexity, align purpose, and spark action in the real world.
What Makes Change Stick?
Through lived experience and rigorous exploration, UTC identifies the conditions under which change becomes possible, probable, and sustainable.
The model explores five interconnected components, each influencing the likelihood of change and its outcomes.
Drivers of Change
Internal motivations (like values, identity, emotions) and external pressures (social norms, resources, policies) that push or pull us toward action. Drivers can align or conflict, shaping the energy behind change.
Horizons
The perceived future — including what’s possible, how far away it feels, and how clearly the path is seen. Horizons influence ambition, urgency, and belief in success.
Feedback Loops
These are cycles of action and reflection that reinforce or disrupt change. Positive loops build learning and growth; negative ones introduce resistance or dissonance.
Tipping Points
Represented by the Greek letter Ξ (Xi), this is the spark where resonance happens and intention becomes action. It emerges when drivers, environment, and feedback align.
Time
A psychological and contextual factor. When change resonates, time feels faster. When change is resisted or unclear, time feels slower. UTC treats time as both experience and influence.
Navigate Change with Ease
Whether you’re leading a team through uncertainty, navigating personal transformation, rethinking culture and strategy, or facilitating community-based change, UTC helps you pause, reflect, and plan with greater clarity.
It brings together disciplines to offer a flexible but structured way of diagnosing, designing, and sustaining change — from the individual to the systemic level.
Who It’s For
This theory is for anyone who is:
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Feeling stuck and wondering why
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Looking to ground personal or organisational transformation in deeper insight
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Leading change but unsure what’s really driving (or blocking) it
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Interested in systems thinking, personal development, and human behaviour
Whether you’re a reflective practitioner, a leader, or someone seeking clarity in complexity, the UTC is here as a thinking companion — not a prescription.
"Change happens at the intersection of what drives us, what aligns us, and how we see the world."
-Gareth Mitchell
Change doesn’t happen in a vacuum. The Universal Theory of Change invites us to step back, zoom out, and ask better questions — about what’s possible, what’s real, and what matters most.
Want to Learn More?
Explore how UTC could apply to your leadership, organisation, or research by getting in touch. Or download our introductory explainer to keep and share.