Wayshaping is a principled approach to behavior change that focuses on shaping the processes that shape us. Rooted in complex systems science, phenomenology and embodied cognition, it recognises that individuals are collective intelligences, embedded within dynamic, interdependent systems. Meaningful transformation, therefore, requires working with the natural flows and rhythms of these systems to shape new alignments that can be sustained over time.
The project has three points of emphasis:
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Wayshaping as phenomenon – the study of how agents act on local-present conditions so as to cultivate more favourable future conditions for preferable actions, identities, and outcomes.
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Multiscale alignment as theory – an account of the diverse intelligences that constitute human life across biological, psychological, social and existential scales, understanding personal change as emerging from their ongoing coordination and negotiation.
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Wayshaping as practice – the refinement of methods and practices that support more skilful engagement with these dynamics, enabling agents to stabilise conditions that make desired forms of action easier to enact and sustain.
You can view some of the outputs of our efforts below. There are several publications currently under review or in press.
Wayshaping: A Multiscale Framework for Behaviour Change
Wayshaping as a Case StudyFor more about the practice of wayshaping (e.g., workshops, courses, coaching), see https://wayshaping.org/