A s human beings, we have a hard time when situations are out of our control. Yet, unfortunately, events happen on a daily basis that are, in fact, just that…out of our control.
From canceled meetings and production screw-ups to the extra work the boss just piled on your desk, these types of day-to-day setbacks can throw you in a downward spiral. That is, if you’re not flexible.
If you find it difficult to adjust, the negative impact can be detrimental to your work life. Not being able to accept the situation and move on to what’s happening in the present affects everyone and every part of your company. Plus, clients’ demands can (and often do) change daily without warning, so being able to solve problems and shift gears without getting stuck on your own emotional roller coaster is crucial.
How well do you adapt to the unexpected twists and turns that occur in your work life? Do you find yourself wasting precious time because your mind is stuck on the outcome you thought was supposed to happen?
Fortunately, being adaptable is a skill you can learn, a muscle you can grow. All you need is the right attitude and the desire to change.
In my workshops that combine improvisation and business strategies, I teach the theory of improv, which is “Yes, and…” Master this concept and you will gain a better acceptance of situations that occur and changes that happen every day.
Instead of resisting what is being thrown at you, this principle teaches you how to be more responsive and come up with ways to solve problems. It reinforces flexibility rather than rejecting reality.
This provides benefits in a number of scenarios, whether dealing with a lost project, a moved deadline, or a disagreement with a coworker. It also gives you the opportunity to see both yourself and others with a new level of awareness.
If you happen to be one of the many people who find it difficult to go with the flow, it’s never too late to change. You can learn to have an internal dialogue with yourself that reminds you to say “yes” and which will help you accept what is happening. To stay positive even in the most negative of situations and keep the conversation going so issues get resolved.
We can all use a place to practice how to be better humans and take control of how we communicate with each other and ourselves. Raise your game workshops create a safe, creative environment, acting as a catalyst for discussions that would never take place otherwise.
April Jaffe, the founder of Raise Your Game, is a business development consultant, business improv facilitator, and sales trainer.