What is Flexibility?
Rigid people are, for the most part, not happy. And because of their rigidity they have a tendency to create stress in those around them, and make them unhappy also. In order to live a more productive, happier life, both need to learn how to be flexible. Life is full of inconveniences and situations which call for flexibility. No matter how we plan, life brings changes. Illness, loss of employment, problems at home, a favorite team's loss, a friend who lets you down, juggling children's afterschool schedules, tense relations with others, airline flights delayed or cancelled, or your computer fails at an inopportune time. Without flexibility, any of these, and a hundred more like them, can cause hurt feelings, fear, anger, frustrations, loss of sleep, and sometimes depression. Some stress is necessary in life because it challenges us to perform better. But it is important to recognize when stress makes you less productive, puts a strain on relationships, or causes mental or physical health problems. The first step in dealing constructively with your stress is to understand what makes you act negatively. Slow down and identify the stress you can change by changing your attitude, the stress from problems which you can solve, and the stress of circumstances beyond your control. Look at the changes in your life, no matter how insignificant they seem, and talk them out with your family or a trusted friend. Changes in dietary, exercise and sleep habits can make a difference in combating stress. As you accomplish changes which are beneficial to your health, you begin to feel better and to feel a sense of progress and accomplishment. The benefit is that you are able to discern situations better. Take care of your self also by adding some flexibility to your schedule. Set aside some time, no matter how limited, to relax and do something you enjoy. Changing the stress level in relationships which have been tense for a while, and involved imagined or real hurt feelings, may require a large amount of patience and flexibility. Look inside yourself and admit what part you may have played in the situation. You may need to approach the individual differently. An apology may be in order. Recognize things that you like or admire in the other person, and tell them. Find something to laugh about together. Laughter is good medicine as a stress reducer, if it is not at the expense of others. Stress is never an excuse for bad behavior. Your attitude at work can be changed. In this time of difficulty, we should all be appreciative if we have a job. If management changes, be committed to being a dependable, flexible employee who will do the best job possible. If your supervisor changes the direction of a project, ask for information so that you will understand the new vision of the project and make any necessary adjustments. Do not make excuses for unfinished projects or place the blame on someone else. Do what you have to do to complete the job and help your supervisor complete goals. When you are in a stressful situation, remember that nothing ever stays the same. Change is inevitable, but it allows us to grow our character and expand our horizons as we face each experience.
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