Abstract
M.Com. (Industrial Psychology)
Change is perceived as the only constant. Given the impact of this continual and chaotic change that organisations are faced with, the management of change is becoming a highly required managerial skill. Business has recognised the necessity and advantages of managing change effectively. Successful business leaders can arguably provide valuable leadership and guidance through periods of change, and a deeper understanding of their mental models may provide valuable empirical insight into their thinking and resultant behaviours. The purpose of this study was therefore to explore the mental model of an organisational leader who flourishes within complex and turbulent contexts. This research was conducted in a qualitative manner using the Repertory Grid Technique to identify personal constructs. Through a process of subsuming, it was possible to identify the mental model of the organisational leader. This mental model has helped identify areas that are crucial to navigating chaotic change in turbulent contexts. The results indicated that self-awareness and confidence in one’s own ability are critical to flourishing within turbulent contexts.