Background
I believe I’m qualified to write on this topic because I have gone through sufficient life experiences where I had to adapt. For starters, in the last 7 years, I have worked on a new initiative every year and sometimes every 6 months. By new I mean: different product, architecture, tech-stack, team, management and culture. Without the ability to adapt, I could not have gone through these transitions and made an impact.
Like in other similar posts, I want to focus on sharing the key learning and insights which is relatable and useful to a broader audience rather than the specifics of the transitions I made.
Without further ado let’s dive in.
Get comfortable with the uncomfortable
We humans generally prefer what is known and avoid what is unfamiliar. The known is comfortable because we have experience of navigating it. We don’t have the mental models to navigate unfamiliar territory. When we go through the unfamiliar (by choice or force):
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We need to develop newer mental models
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Unlearn older ones which may not apply in the new context
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Reuse/refine existing models which are still applicable
Each of the above steps helps build mind-muscles. The first one makes you a better learner. The second one gives you the ability to assess models for applicability based on context. In the process you build meta models, which (over time) give versatility, efficiency, and unique points of view. The third one improves the quality of models as they get polished by testing and application in different contexts. It also makes you aware of the cross-domain (universal) models in your tool-set.
This in itself is so much value that I can end the post here. But I will keep going as there is more.
Expand your network and connections
The people aspect. Your network is your net worth. Connecting with newer people and becoming a part of newer networks gives you access to opportunities and information which is otherwise not possible. People skills is something anyone can develop given enough exposure and practice. Having good people skills gives leverage not just in work or assignments but life in general. One amazing thing I have observed is that if you keep investing in people skills, it’s value compounds.
I have experiences with people on a regular basis which feel magical and unbelievable. These experiences have turned out to be crown-jewels of my life.
I can’t over-emphasize the importance of investing in developing and nurturing your connections and people skills.
Stay humble and grounded
When you find yourself in situations where you need to start from scratch and depend on others-for your day to day work and overall success-it gives you humility.
The best anti-dote to arrogance I have discovered is new and complex problems and unfamiliar situations.
Become a master communicator
When you adapt to new situations and do it often, your communication skills improve. That’s because you are processing a lot of information, assessing its value, interacting with a varied audience to seek or disseminate information, all of which helps you become an effective and efficient communicator.
Increased energy levels
Regularly adapting to changes has a natural side effect of uplifting your energy and awareness levels. This happens because an adaptation requires escape velocity and generating it gives you the ability to operate at higher energy levels.
Cost of not being adaptable
You fear the unknown more. You (may) miss out on self-development opportunities and rich experiences.
Note: From a technology standpoint I find the latest AI tools helpful in getting into and navigating unknown areas faster and better. All these tools make adaptability more interesting and productive.
No lunch for free
Continuing for a prolonged period in one area comes with its own benefits:
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I don’t feel the same depth, ease and confidence that others with decades of expertise in one area have.
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Some of the deep impact work requires knowledge and expertise which only specialists can provide.
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I believe assessment systems that compare the impact of generalists to specialists may not fully appreciate the value of the former due to biases. If my belief is true then that’s a price to be paid for being one.
Conclusion
Notwithstanding the cons, being adaptable is totally worth it as it prepares you for richer and diverse life experiences. Adapting often keeps the life juices flowing and not let it stagnate.
You learn adaptability in the school of real life experiences and the next time life offers you an opportunity to practice it, jump right in.