Adaptability

Life doesn’t come with an instruction manual, but, as we learn and grow, we develop skills that become part of our survival kit. One particular skill – adaptability – can help us navigate any challenge, and not just survive, but flow with the river and thrive.

Adaptability is the ability to adjust to new or changing circumstances. If we are flexible, not only do we reduce our own suffering, but we can also tap into enriching resources within us that can open new vistas.

The COVID-19 pandemic has created many opportunities for people of our planet to practise and sharpen their adaptability skills. Many have been working from home, adapting whatever space they have – bedroom, kitchen, laundry room, basement, garage, even a closet – into their work station.

Change is often challenging, but it is an opportunity to go beyond our comfort zone and see new points of view. In fact, this is integral to our growth. When we change how we do things, we learn new things about ourselves and the change can lead to a feeling of renewal and further opportunities. We realize how resourceful and resilient we can be. The circumstances push us to dig deeper.

Many people who have become partially disabled have found ways to adapt. There are artists who paint with their feet and wheelchair and Paralympic athletes who have won medals. Recently there was a video of a gymnast without legs living her dream, using only her arms to somersault across the floor. We have seen dogs and cats who have adapted to a life with one or two missing limbs. Immigrants have to be adaptable in order to survive and thrive in a new country. They have to adapt to a new culture, language, climate and laws.

Where there is a will, there is a way. Our challenges are surmountable if we know what we want, focus on our true intentions and direct our energy toward our goals with clarity and tenacity.

Some of the key requirements of adaptability are openness, willingness, courage, drive, determination, perseverance, patience, faith in oneself, hope, gratitude, a sense of adventure and curiosity, discipline, and allowing oneself to be vulnerable. For many people, a faith in a power bigger than themselves and focusing on a higher purpose or calling are underlying factors in helping them to adapt to circumstances.

Here are some tips to help you develop more adaptability:

1. Know what you want; have a clear objective.
2. Have a plan and set your direction.
3. Be willing to try different routes to reach your goal.
4. Stay flexible. You might have to zig zag your way to your
   goal.
5. Brainstorm the advantages of a new situation and how it can serve
   you.
6. Have a sense of curiosity and adventure.
7. Ask for help, especially someone who is good at being
   adaptable.

Adaptability can help you facilitate change and transition, attract life enhancing opportunities, become resilient, and develop an inner strength and peace that can see you through anything along your life journey.