You Live in Each and Every Moment
You don't see the future as a fixed destination. Instead, you see it as a place that you create out of the choices that you make right now.
And so you discover your future one choice at a time. This doesn't mean that you don't have plans. You probably do. But this theme of Adaptability does enable you to respond willingly to the demands of the moment even if they pull you away from your plans.
Unlike some, you don't resent sudden requests or unforeseen detours. You expect them. They are inevitable. Indeed, on some level you actually look forward to them. You are, at heart, a very flexible person who can stay productive when the demands of work are pulling you in many different directions at once.
Adaptability has as an overwhelming calmness when unexpected change happens. And even more than calmness, it provides clarity; people with Adaptability can easily see the most immediate next step and can be present in the moment, despite the plan. They respond to what people need in the moment that they need it. It has a high situational and emotional awareness when a change is occurring.
Theme Thursday Podcast brings thought leaders to deep dive on each StrengthsFinder theme.
The time invested is worth it - learn about Adaptability with a leader lens.
When Adaptability is soaring...
Flexible
Comfortable in times of change
Easy to get along with
Go with the flow
Adaptability is a relationship building theme. It also leans into the executing domain. When everyone else wants to halt, someone with high Adaptability says “we can continue” and “let’s focus on where we’re going right now.”
When Adaptability is on over-drive...
Directionless
Indecisive
Sheep
Inconclusive
Whimsical
A leader with Adaptability...
Creates trust by demonstrating urgency and focus in the moment. Showing why now is important. Also when building strong relationships that can hold a team together and make the team greater than the sum of its parts.
Shows compassion by making sure to know when to be with others. You know when people need you.
Creates stability in helping people see where you stand now and how it applies to the future. You deal well when there is a need to change courses often so help people understand and feel comfortable.
Inspires hope through praise and recognition in the moment. Sometimes Adaptability is about following, because it’s about responding to what’s relevant and present and important in the moment.
Leaders with Adaptability can become more interested in responding rather than preventing or preempting issues, but it also means they can accept what change is very quickly. Leaders with Adaptability are seen as early adopters of change and do very well with diverse groups of people.
