Embrace the Uncertainties: Flexibility and Resilience in Life and Planning
Life is full of uncertainties, and we often face situations where our plans don't go as we expected. How we handle these unexpected bumps can make all the difference in how we approach challenges and achieve our goals. In this article, we explore a philosophy that promotes flexibility and resilience, and the importance of choosing a path that, while not perfect, allows for continuous improvement and growth.
Adapting to Change and Taking Action
When faced with unexpected situations, a common reaction is to get upset, angry, or even feel a sense of unfairness. However, over time, I've learned to let go of these emotions and focus on what I can control. Instead of dwelling on the past or getting anxious about the future, I reflect on my actions and figure out what I could have done better. By staying objective and removing the emotion from the problem, I can see it more clearly and make necessary adjustments.
When a bump occurs on my roadmap, I choose another direction. This reminds me that choice is a powerful tool that can break free from the limitations of the past and lead me to a better future. By embracing choice, I can form a new path that is illuminated by my goals and intentions rather than hindered by past mistakes or negative emotions.
Lessons from My Past
Growing up, I was highly self-directed and tended to make my own plans without much input from others or society. My plans were structured and effective, serving my intentions well for over 90% of my adult life. However, as with most people, my plans were only partially successful, with room for improvement, especially when interference from people or circumstances was unforeseen.
One significant turning point in my life came with the meeting of my soulmate, Jeane. She possessed skills that I lacked and was willing to share her knowledge with me, demonstrating infinite patience as I struggled to implement her advice. This process of learning and growing continued for many years, eventually leading me to refine my planning skills and structure my future to my satisfaction.
Resilience in the Face of Failure
Despite my best efforts, no plan is infallible. People and circumstances can always intervene and disrupt plans, and it's important to recognize that failure is not a reflection of our worth but an opportunity for growth and learning. For me, failure is either a redirection or an indication that I need to do better. It doesn't mean that I can't succeed, but rather that I need to learn more and try again.
A crucial aspect of my philosophy is the concept of 'the easy button,' a term I use to describe a choice that aligns with my goals and intentions. When faced with loss, such as the physical loss of my beloved Jeane, I took this approach by choosing a new partner, JoAnn, who shares Jeane's insights and skills. This choice demonstrated that even in the face of great sadness, finding a new path can lead to continued growth and happiness.
Conclusion
In conclusion, embracing flexibility and resilience in our lives is essential when things don't go as planned. By learning from our mistakes, recognizing the value of choice, and maintaining a growth mindset, we can navigate through life's uncertainties with grace and resilience. Remember, the road to success is rarely smooth, but with a positive philosophy and a willingness to change, we can achieve our goals and find happiness even in unexpected circumstances.