Keys to Success: Flexibility

If you’re having trouble with success in any area of your life and find yourself feeling overwhelmed or flustered, then you may need to work on this key to success.

You’ll find reaching your goals is easier in all areas of your life as soon as you learn to be more flexible! When you’re more flexible, you’ll not only find more success, but you will also find you are an inspiration to others to find their version of success. But what exactly does it mean to be flexible and how can you get there?

What Is Flexibility?

There are two types of flexibility. The first is physical, and if you’re are into yoga like I am you know all about flexibility, and it’s benefits. The second type is mental flexibility, and this is the one we’re talking about. It’s the opposite of being rigid, the opposite of being set in your ways. When you’re flexible, you’re open. You’ll easily be able to roll with the punches and keep moving forward regardless of what happens.

When a non-flexible person is thrown a curve ball, they’ll fluster, complain, or even give up. But that doesn’t have to describe you anymore! You can become more flexible, and I will show you how, but first let’s talk about why flexibility is so important.

Why Is Flexibility A Key To Success?

Flexibility is a key to success for several reasons. Perhaps most importantly, flexibility helps you overcome challenges. It can open up your world to opportunities that you never thought you’d experience. Flexibility can be the key to helping you enjoy the spices of life, and this makes life more fun and fulfilling.

It’s important to remain flexible both at work and at home. When you’re flexible at work, you are easier to work with for co-workers and customers. Why? Because they know that they can count on you during times of uncertainty or change. You’ll also notice that this added flexibility gives your days a variety that helps you get out of bed in the morning.

Flexibility also helps your home life. When you’re flexible, there will be less conflict and more understanding between family members. In turn, you’ll enjoy easier and more fulfilling relationships with your family. Flexibility helps you re-organize your schedule when something unexpected happens without having to fret over the details. This could be as simple as coming up with a quick, healthy alternative dinner if you are running late or a change of plans due to weather.

How Can You Become More Flexible?

So now you know why it’s important to be flexible, but how can you get there?

Try these three strategies to gain more flexibility in your life:

1. Work on your reactions

Part of being adaptable is being aware of your immediate reactions. Many times these reactions are more habitual than how we feel about the circumstance, and it is easy to let these habits run our days. They also may not be very appropriate or helpful, so consider taking a few moments to “think about it” before reacting negatively.

An example would be to complain because someone is bringing home a dinner guest at the last minute. This wasn’t something you planned for! Remember the big picture. It is not too difficult to set a new place for dinner. Later you can remind your family to give notice next time.

2. Step out of your comfort zone

To become more flexible, you’ll need to get used to regularly stepping out of your comfort zone. It may help to start with small things because it won’t be as much of a shock if you’re a fan of routine.

While it may seem like a bit of a personality change, stepping out of your comfort zone can prove to be exhilarating. It is more about changing habits than changing your personality, and you will likely find your life more exciting and fulfilling when you cross that line of comfort.

3. Speak up

Some people may be unaware that you’re inherently flexible. Make yourself heard by those around you. Suggest alternatives to solve problems at home or work. Don’t let the fear of what others think to stop you from exercising your flexible ways.

Take Small Steps

A great strategy is to take small steps to get to where you need to go. Everyone comes with a different skill set. You may be a flexible person that just needs to expand, or you may need to work on gaining flexibility as a whole.  You can’t expect to be a different person overnight, but with small steps, you’ll be there soon! And I know that enhancing your flexibility will not only make your life more fun and fulfilling but also take your life to places you never thought you would go.

So get out there and “flex” those muscles.

You’re an amazing person. Allow yourself to be that person each and every day. Be yourself!

Here’s to living the life you LOVE!