According to John P. Kotter, which of the following is a key to leading successful change?

Establishing a sense of urgency is essential for leading successful change, as it serves as a catalyst for mobilizing individuals and organizations toward transformation. When stakeholders perceive that there is a significant need for change—whether due to competition, market dynamics, or internal challenges—they are more likely to engage with the change process. This urgency helps to focus attention on the change initiative, creates momentum, and motivates people to participate actively in the change effort. It sets the stage for the subsequent steps in Kotter's change model, as it compels people to confront the status quo and encourages them to move away from complacency, making them more receptive to the vision and plans for change.

In the context of Kotter's model, the other aspects, such as creating a guiding coalition, communicating the change vision, and consolidating gains, are significant as well, but they rely on the initial creation of urgency to generate the necessary motivation and commitment among team members and stakeholders. Without that initial urgency, the following steps may lack the needed engagement to be fully effective.