the 8 crafts method: explained

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Read the thinking behind our method

The 8 Crafts Method is a compass for leading change in complex times. Whether you’re starting something new, scaling what works, or closing a chapter, it helps you move with clarity and momentum. Inspired by natural rhythms and timeless roles, it offers practical tools for each phase of change.

One Method.
Two Lenses

Our method has two lenses: one grounded in science, one proven in practice. Both will help you navigate complexity and lead change with confidence.

Rooted in science

Lens one uses 4 trusted disciplines: futures thinking, systems thinking, design thinking, and regenerative thinking. These fields shape how we map complexity and design real, lasting change.

Proven in practice

Lens two is built on lived experience. It follows the rhythm of real change — moving through imagination, insight, action, and renewal, across the four cardinal directions.

"WITHIN facilitated a program in which we co-created our strategic narrative, whilst also building team cohesion and individual leadership. We ended up with a winning plan, backed by a strong team that is ready to execute."

Donica Buisman
Founder / Director RAUM

“WITHIN boosted our competency to drive change at KLM. Their approach breaks from traditional consultancy by making learning experiential, palpable almost. The 8 Crafts will help us become the frontrunner airline we aspire to be. ”

Tom Verbugt
Vice-President of Strategy, KLM

Build Your Craft

Craft is the ongoing practice of personal mastery. Each one builds both mindset and muscle - and together, they help you see with clarity and act with intention.

From Learning To Leading

Inner and outer change aren’t separate. Each Craft is designed to be clear, inspiring, and actionable, giving you just enough depth to apply what you learn with courage and confidence.

Easily accessible depth of knowledge

Inspiration Stories
Learn from pioneers and businesses who’ve paved the way for change.
Guiding Questions
Kickstart your learning with thought-provoking prompts that reframe your perspective.
Creation Tools
Get practical tools to collaborate and co-create meaningful outcomes.
Leadership Practices
Integrate mindsets and behaviors that will help you and your team thrive.
Application
Combine practices and tools from a particular craft to progress your initiative.
Explore The Method

The 8 Crafts
of Leading Change

Futures Thinking

Futures thinking is about understanding that the future is not fixed, but instead that it can be shaped by the decisions that we make today and that we have agency in the emerging future.

Systems Thinking

Systems thinking is about seeing the connections between all parts of a system and recognizing that what we see as problems are the emergent outcomes of a deeper dynamic.

Design Thinking

Design thinking is about harnessing creativity in order to foster collaboration and solve problems. It is about constant iteration and taking a human-centered approach.

Regenerative Thinking

Regenerative thinking is about creating the conditions for thriving systems, finding a balance between seeking positive outcomes and avoiding unintended consequences.

North:
reflect & imagine

The North represents winter, the season of unseen beginnings, where seeds take root before sprouting. This is the space for big questions, bold ideas, and the quiet work of reimagining what’s possible.

East:
explore & observe

The East represents spring, the season of emergence. The sun rises, ideas take shape, and clarity unfolds. This is where inspiration turns into intention, through curiosity, systems thinking, and careful mapping.

South:
navigate & execute

The South represents summer, the season of doing, long days, focused work, and steady momentum. This is where ideas are built, tested, and refined, where strategy meets action.

West:
collaborate & amplify

The West represents autumn, the season of harvest, a time to gather, share, and celebrate progress. It’s where insights are exchanged, impact is multiplied, and letting go makes space for what’s next.

"For four years they facilitated the yearly CEO summit of the World Port Climate Action Program.  We saw a noticeable increase in leaders' personal power, and in the ambition and impact of the initiatives in the program.”

Erik van der Schans
Dir. Environmental Management, Port of Rotterdam

"The 8 Crafts model offers inspiration, perspectives, and tools to drive innovation in diverse ways. It helps professionals discover their most natural, effective approach to solving challenges with impact and creativity."

Jordy Veth
Founder School for Mastery

identify your
next step

Take our free assessment and discover which of the 8 Crafts you’re already using — and which ones will unlock your next level of impact.