When things get challenging, what is the main quality you have that gets you through?

For me, it’s adaptability. It’s integral and a catalyst to make positive changes and to grow.

For instance, maybe it means switching up your routine anticipated run to a HIIT workout. (Ahem, cough, cough, watch the video.) I still worked out, and hard. However, I achieved it by adapting to the challenge.

If you don’t adapt to change, you won’t move. If you won’t move, you’ll get left behind.

Did you know that humans are the most adaptable of all species? It’s science! From an unexpected change to your work out, to your business, to a global pandemic, how you move through and adapt to transitions will determine your success. Your joy. Your life. (Full disclosure – I am only human, so sometimes, this sage insight occurs after the dust has settled!)

It’s easy to expect or want stability. But change, and adapting to change, does not equal instability. In fact, if you find yourself at a crossroads and adapting is in order, you are likely moving the dial toward more stability and success.

Right now I am writing my next book, Different is Better. It’s about marketing. Differently.  And when you are doing different, there will always be a little bit of concern when it comes to adapting to the changes you make.

Adapting to new circumstances isn’t easy. Here are some of the roadblocks and what I do to surpass those suckers. Fair warning, this can be a workout for your mental muscles. But I know you have what it takes.

• Refusal of acceptance. Change is a natural part of life. Fighting change will not make the need go away. And, you may end up regretting now making a change later (do deal with this, check out the last blog on regret!) Most of life’s greatest opportunities are baked into challenges. And you must accept those challenges to be open to the changes required for your success.
• Fear of risk. You’re going to have to drop the fear. When there is change there is risk. I get it! Try to focus on your values instead of your fears. Take baby steps. Each small step you take is a step in the right direction in eliminating those fears. Eventually, you will have taken enough steps that you feel more confident and comfortable with risks. I’m not saying bet the house in Vegas. But let’s not do the same thing over and over and expect immense success.
• The forest through the trees. When a challenge arises and you are faced with 100 moving parts, it’s hard to see the proverbial forest through the trees. Take pause and ask yourself, how do you want the landscape to appear when this challenge is over? (Close your eyes and picture it, I’ll wait…) Ok, good. Now, what goals do you need to achieve to get there? Checking those goals off is an empowering step in the process.

Adaptability. It doesn’t mean not staying true to yourself. Adaptability equals the stronger you. The even better you. The more evolved you. The more successful you. 

I am, as always, rooting for you!

-Mike