Adaptability is key – Marc Andreessen
Audibles and Crucibles
Successful teams know when and how to make necessary adjustments and adapt at appropriate moments to affect a game in their favor. In American Football, these are called “audibles,” often done by quarterbacks., They change the gameplay to a predetermined plan in response to an opposition’s defensive formation. On the other hand, a crucible is a place where metal is refined. It is also defined as a severe test or trial where the interaction of different elements results in something of more substantial and higher quality. Like metal, an adaptive mindset is often formed in the crucibles of life.
Possessing an adaptable mindset requires making positive mental changes that will lead to sustained effectiveness. These three choices will seed you with healthy thoughts, keep you flexible, and even catapult you to greater heights.
Possessing an adaptable mindset requires making positive mental changes that will lead to sustained effectiveness.
Three Choices
Choose your frame: This is the lens through which you see your circumstance. Your attitude will broadly support this. It begins with a reality check about the situation. Then, follow it up with two questions, “How do I choose to see it?” and “Who do I want to become from this?”
Choose your voice: Which voice will you listen to? Voices lead to choices, and the voices we listen to have much to do with the future we experience. If you choose the voice of despondency, you will drag yourself down the doldrums of life and have a pity party. But, if you select the voice of hope in the crucible, lasting confidence and resilience will give you a mental vantage point and help you make necessary mental shifts.
Choose your pivot: When new Alcoa CEO Paul O’Neill gave his first speech in 1987, investors thought he would speak about profit margins and how he would work to improve them. Instead, he pivoted to worker safety. Amid unbelief and pin-drop silence, he set the agenda for his tenure as “making Alcoa the safest company in the world.” A year later, Alcoa’s profits hit a record high while drastically reducing safety incidents. Decide which direction you will pivot to, then focus.
Final thought: Ultimately, your mindset will play a defining role in goal accomplishment. It is virtually impossible to rise above the level of your thinking. If you work on your mindset, you will drastically alter the course of your life for the better. And, when the unexpected happens, or your enthusiasm and momentum begin to wane, the right mindset will give you the fortitude and resilience to stick it out. Stay adaptable.
Keep on keeping on.
Discover Your Treasure 