5 Steps to Being Flexible

Recently I was commended at work for my flexibility - a condition to which if others knew the massive consolation that I undergo to achieve some semblance of agreeableness, would be surprised. The issue of flexibility is, at its core, a revelation of how much I need control. How many times have I seen my neatly laid out plans escape from underneath me? The mantra "keep calm and carry on" may have its cult-like appeal on posters, mugs, and t-shirt, but it is in the end an oversimplified remedy for what I think needs far more working out. Here's what I've discovered is what it takes for me: 1. Freak-out. Not the first course of action you would think of advising! I think it's impossible that something unexpected doesn't warrant at least a small freak-out session. If it doesn't, it's likely that you just didn't care too much to begin with.

2. Grieve. An unexpected change, or adjustment implies there is a loss of something previously planned for. Whatever that plan was, it's gone, and those around you would be all the better if you allow time to lament but avoid making a big stink about it. Kill the need to be the drama queen.

3, Let it go. If the only thing you hear is Disney's Frozen, I apologize. Seriously though, once you realize you can't reverse what's happened, you need to move in the next direction. If you cling too tightly to what was lost, you will never be able to troubleshoot effectively.

4. Don't ask why. Too many questions over what has been lost will prevent your forward progress. Even if a "why" is answered, it's less than satisfactory in the heat of the moment.

5. Be okay with the next best choice. My perfectionism often stands in the way of me coming to terms with "Plan B," but in the end it's often my self-reliance that stands in the way of embracing what could ultimately be an outcome far greater than what I could craft on my own.

I write the above humbly, knowing that I'll need to consult this list again for the next thing that gets taken from me.

"The heart of man plans his way, but the LORD establishes his steps." (Proverbs 16:9)