We now live in an uncertain time. Things that seemed certain just a few months ago may seem uncertain now. What seemed like sure bets back then may turn out to be the opposite.
So how can we go through this?
Well, I believe that the key to survive and even thrive in uncertain times is being adaptable.
You see, it’s not enough just to be good at what you do. An entire industry could be turned upside down in a time like this. When that happened, running faster on your current track wouldn’t change the situation. Instead, you should be prepared to move to a different track. You should be prepared to move horizontally instead of vertically.
It’s easier said than done, though. First, it’s hard to leave our comfort zone. Second, we may not be sure about where to go. But still, it’s worth the effort to become adaptable.
I still have a lot to learn myself, but here are some tips I’ve learned on how to become adaptable.
1. Build your portfolio of passions.
Moving to a different track will be easier if you build your portfolio of passions. These are things you are passionate about that you cultivate over time. Cultivating here means that you develop the knowledge and skills related to your passions.
This, in turn, will be easier if you have curiosity. Curiosity is like fuel in your learning journey. The more you have it, the further you will go.
2. Find ways to combine your passions.
Why is it important to build your portfolio of passions? Because it gives you the building blocks to help you adapt to new situations.
In most cases, you use your portfolio of passions by combining them to offer something unique. It’s like having several colors on your palette. You can combine them in many different ways. There is a good chance that at least one of them will give you the solution you need.
3. Make small bets.
What should you do with the combinations you find? You should make small bets with them! It’s a bet because there is a risk of failure. But it’s small because you limit your downside.
So what you should do is this: make small bets based on your portfolio of passions.
4. Put more resources on the promising one.
When one bet shows promising results, you can put more resources into it. The resources here could be your time or money.
But you should still keep your other options open. Remember, it’s a bet. The results are probabilistic, not deterministic. So always be prepared for the possibility of failures.
5. Be persistent.
Being adaptable doesn’t mean giving up easily. On the contrary, you should be persistent. Do your best to make the most of the bet that you have made. But if it doesn’t work, learn the lessons and move on to the next bet.
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With these tips, you will be ready to face the new situations that come your way.
Do you have other tips on how to become adaptable? Feel free to share them in the comments!
