Methods to Become More Adaptable
Change occurs constantly in the Army at the group and personal levels. To encourage adaptability among your subordinates, you need to lead by example. Explore methods for becoming more adaptable in the interaction below.
You should actively go beyond what you’re comfortable with and get used to experiencing the unfamiliar through events that have challenges which change as they proceed. Adapting in this way means throwing yourself into a challenge headfirst, instead of easing in slowly. Instead of constantly following the same routine, force yourself to try new ways of doing things.
For example, you can do this by:
- Operating in an environment of constant change.
- Embracing the opportunities that present themselves and adapt to whatever arises.
- Engaging in broad and complex problems.
You can actively seek out diverse relationships and situations by working with individuals and Soldiers in different agencies, divisions, and even platoons. You can learn new methods of communicating and accomplishing tasks through exposure to people with different ways of doing things.
For example, you can do this by:
- Working with people different from yourself and your background.
- Participating in events from different cultures.
You should seek out and engage in assignments that involve challenges and major changes. Even if you specialize in a particular area, your experience should be broad. By broadening yourself and gravitating to more and more new situations and experiences, you’ll be better prepared for change when it comes your way.
You can do this by:
- Rapidly switching between different situations (e.g., from training in offensive operations to applying diplomacy).
- Working beyond your area of specialization.
- Trying out new roles with greater responsibilities.
