Life rarely goes exactly as planned. Change comes at us in ways we can’t predict—sometimes it’s exciting, other times it’s overwhelming. But through my own journey and the wisdom of elders I’ve known, I’ve learned this: adaptability is one of the greatest strengths we can cultivate.
Lessons from Change
My Grandpa John, who lived to 98, was a master of adapting to life’s twists and turns. After serving in WWII and earning the Bronze Star, he returned home to a world that looked very different from the one he left. Instead of letting the changes overwhelm him, he leaned into them. He shifted careers, learned to fly a plane in his 50s, and embraced every new chapter with curiosity and courage.
“Life will change whether you’re ready or not,” he once told me, “but if you bend instead of break, you’ll find strength you didn’t know you had.”
This sentiment is echoed in “Timeless Wisdom”, where an elder shares, “Adaptability isn’t about giving up—it’s about growing through what life throws at you.” That truth has been central to my recovery from two hip replacements. Each day brings challenges, and each day I adapt a little more, finding ways to move forward.
The Power of Adaptability
Adaptability isn’t about passively accepting change—it’s about actively responding to it. It’s choosing to see obstacles as opportunities and finding new paths when the old ones no longer work.
Martial arts has taught me this lesson time and again. On the mats, no two scenarios are ever the same. A new opponent, a different strategy, or even an unexpected mistake forces you to adapt. It’s not about rigidly sticking to one plan—it’s about staying flexible, assessing the situation, and making the best move in the moment.
Life is no different. The mats may be where these lessons come alive for me, but it’s in the broader challenges of life—like recovering from surgery, adjusting to a new routine, or navigating unforeseen setbacks—that adaptability truly shines.
As “Lessons on Legacy” highlights, “Your legacy isn’t about the plan you made—it’s about how you respond when that plan falls apart.”
How to Build Adaptability
So how do we cultivate adaptability in our lives?
- Embrace Change as a Teacher:
Every change, even the difficult ones, has something to teach us. Ask yourself: What can I learn from this? - Stay Curious:
Approach challenges with a mindset of exploration. What new opportunities might this change bring? - Practice Resilience:
Adaptability and resilience go hand in hand. Build resilience by focusing on what you can control and letting go of what you can’t. - Be Willing to Pivot:
Sometimes, the best path forward is a new one. Don’t be afraid to adjust your course.
Reflections for Today
What changes are you facing right now?
Take a moment to reflect on how you’re approaching them. Are you resisting, or are you adapting? Remember, adaptability isn’t about abandoning who you are—it’s about growing into the next version of yourself.
Life will always bring change, but how we respond to it defines our strength. Adaptability is the key to living strong, no matter what comes our way.
