What is Adaptability?

Adaptability is a skill that can not only be used in the workplace, but is a tool that can be used throughout life. Adaptability is the ability to be able to keep up with the constant obstacles that are being thrown at you. Adaptability involves being able to adapt to new environments and conditions, being able to stay composed during difficult situations, and being able to make quick decisions in the midst of an unplanned event. Adaptability is a tool that both people and businesses use in order to stay relevant rather than becoming obsolete.

Lacking adaptability is not just lacking an important skill, it can be seen as a weakness to employers. People who are not adaptive are unlikely and unwilling to learn new things, and because of this are hesitant or even refuse to adopt new ideas. This unwillingness to experiment is derived from the fear of failure, lack of awareness, unclear decision making skills, and even show signs of ego which most people do not find pleasant to deal with.

Here is a great quick overview of adaptability.

Here are some questions that will test your adaptability.

1. Are you curious to learn new things?
2. Do you like to experiment?
3. Do you see great opportunities in new situations?
4. Instead of complaining when you are in a situation you can not control do you just keep it moving?
5. Do you plan for the future, but always have alternative options that you would be willing and ready to use?
6. Do you adapt because you want to or because you are forced to?

If you said yes to the majority of the above questions you are adaptable. One of the key themes with adaptability is the desire to learn new things and being able to make the best out of any situation thrown at you. Having adaptability is a skill you need to have.