Adaptability and Change is part of life and it's unavoidable.
Some of it within our control but as we’ve found in recent years much of it is beyond our control.
You only have to watch the Paralympics to see how
adaptable human beings are.
Think how far we’ve come in the last few decades, especially with the changes in technology.
- Mobile phones have gone from being the size of a brick to something you can hold in your hand with more processing power than the early desktop computers.
- Social media wasn’t really a thing when I started in business, now it drives change, with it’s ability to communicate thoughts, ideas and reactions to events around the world in a matter of
seconds.
We rapidly adapted to Covid, sometimes almost overnight as many workers went from their daily commute to the office, to working from home. And now they’ve adapted again with hybrid working.
We adapt and change at different rates. Some are more resistant and change only when they have to. Others embrace change and quickly grasp the new reality.
How have you adapted to changes
over the last few years?
Adaptability Traits
Growth Mindset: Instead of
resisting or fearing change, see it as an opportunity to expand your skills and knowledge to grow. What new skills do you need to learn, what opportunities are now opening up? Focus more on the positive rather than the negative.
Emotional Intelligence: When faced with uncertainty
and change, understand and manage your emotions. Stop, think and reflect on what’s happening so you can adapt, remain calm and make rational decisions rather than an emotional, knee-jerk reaction, made in the heat of the moment.
Flexibility and an Open-Mind: Adaptability requires
a willingness to move away from established routines and embrace new ways of thinking. Being flexible means letting go and being open to new ideas and perspectives. Be willing to try new things, adapt and learn from your mistakes.
Be Proactive: Take the initiative. Rather than
waiting for change to happen, anticipate and prepare for it. Be proactive in seeking out opportunities and challenges, rather than passively reacting when things shift if you want to stay ahead of the curve.
Stay Informed: Stay curious and be keen to acquire new knowledge and
skills. Keep up with trends in business, learn about new technologies and how it can support you. Read, learn online - work related training or for self-interest. Not only are you more aware of what’s happen but you’re more prepared for the next change and have the tools to handle it.
Seek
Feedback: Regular feedback from colleagues, mentors, and peers can provide valuable insights into how you can improve and adapt. Constructive criticism can highlight areas where you need to be more flexible or open to new ideas.
Be Flexible: While it’s important to have
goals, don’t make them so rigid they can’t be changed when needed. Set goals that are clear but flexible, so you’re able to adjust your path as new opportunities or challenges occur.
Build Resilience: Strengthen your ability to cope with stress and bounce back from adversity.
Regular physical activity, and maintaining a strong personal and professional support network can build your resilience when things get tough or your circumstances change.
