In the world we live in today, everyone is dealing with obstacles, setbacks and delays on a regular basis- all of which call for a flexible mindset. It could be that we are already flexible or maybe we can use some work in that regard.
Perhaps we are not as flexible as we could be because we don’t like or are afraid of change. Maybe it has to do with the fact that we are limiting ourselves to black and white, or right and wrong, thinking. It could be that we struggle with adaptability and give up quickly when things go awry. It might also have to do with the fact that we don’t handle stress and frustration well, or never learned proper conflict resolution skills. No matter what, however, it is vital that we are flexible to some extent.
Being flexible helps us in a number of ways including:
- Improving our problem-solving. When we are flexible, we tend to look for original solutions that differ from the way that we thought something would happen which leads to better outcomes.
- Making us more adaptable to change. The more flexible we are, the more we will be open to adjustments and new ideas.
- Fostering better relationships. We can’t always have our way when it comes to personal dynamics. When we are more flexible, there tends to be an equal give and take which is essential for the health of the relationship.
- Reducing stress. When we are not tied to a singular outcome, we become less married to when and how it happens, which allows more opportunities to flow in.
- Adding to our learning and growth. If we are open and flexible, a plethora of ideas and knowledge enters our thoughts and lives.
- Increasing our resilience. When we are flexible, we are more resilient the next time that we hit a setback and need to regroup.
- Leading to our career success. Companies seek employees with a high level of flexibility because they are operating in quickly changing market conditions where that skill proves to be extremely valuable.
- Improving our relationships. Flexibility is critical for finding compromise and empowering others.
If you feel like you struggle in this regard, never fear. You can improve your flexibility through the following actions:
- Practicing open-mindedness. When we are too closed, we are not receptive to the opinions and thoughts of others. The more that we learn to listen, the more our flexibility will improve in all areas.
- Challenging fixed mindsets. If we find that we are resisting something, we should challenge ourselves to get to the root of why and do our best to turn it around.
- Staying calm when issues arise. As we become better at mastering our mental state, we are becoming more flexible in the process.
- Taking small breaks. By incorporating time-outs, we become less attached to things getting done quickly and improve our ability to wait and adjust.
- Setting flexible goals. The more we think and strategize in a flexible way, the more we will factor flexibility into our everyday routine.
- Learning from others. By being receptive to other people, we are teaching ourselves a lesson in flexibility.
- Pausing for reflection. When we stop and reflect, we are analyzing our actions to improve and expand our mindset and repertoire.
- Being okay with uncertainty. Although it can be unsettling at times, do your best to learn to live in ambiguity. You’ll be less rattled the next time you veer off course and will improve your flexibility in the process.
As you can see, flexibility is a highly necessary and valued skill in today’s world. The more that we work on our flexibility, the happier and more successful we will become.