"We Tried That and It Didn’t Work”: The Power of the Placeholder

Ever been told: “We tried that and it didn’t work”?

Most people hear that as resistance. But what if it’s something else entirely?

In the 2nd episode of the Archetypes of Change Summer Series, Amy Lynn Durham introduces you to the Placeholder archetype—a vital, often misunderstood role in the workplace. You’ll meet Teresa, a steady leader who held her team together during a messy system rollout—not by pushing forward, but by protecting what was already working.

🎧 In this episode:

• What defines the Placeholder Archetype (and why every team has one)
• The real reason “we tried that already” gets said—and what’s hiding underneath it
• How Placeholders create safety, structure, and rhythm in times of uncertainty
• The risks of ignoring their wisdom—and how to engage them in change without steamrolling

This isn’t a personality quiz. It’s a lens for seeing your team—and yourself—more clearly. And it might just change the way you lead your next change initiative.

💼 Ready to bring the Archetypes of Change to your org? Create Magic At Work® offers transformational coaching and team experiences for leaders navigating transition.

🔗 createmagicatwork.net

Additional Resources:

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Key Takeaways:

• Placeholder Archetype: Focuses on stability and thoughtful change, not resistance.
• Grounding Transitions: Placeholders bring practical wisdom and honor what works.
• Shadow Side: Over-reliance can lead to fear, delay, or blocking progress.
• Realism, Not Resistance: Caution often stems from past poor change experiences.
• Leadership Insight: Understanding archetypes boosts communication and smoother change.