Chapter 1: The Importance of Flexibility

In a world that continually shifts, the pandemic highlighted a crucial lesson: one cannot always have their way. Like many, I find comfort in my routines—be it my preferred gas station, the route I take to work, or the specific brand of bread I purchase, available only at a particular supermarket. Even with multiple Starbucks nearby, I often gravitate towards the one where the baristas work more efficiently, or where the morning traffic is less congested.

While having a routine can be beneficial, it is vital not to allow it to render you inflexible. I’ve observed firsthand, through friends and family with children on the autism spectrum, how rigid preferences can be. For instance, one child might insist on having an even number of chicken nuggets—four or six—but never five. Although this may seem extreme, we all exhibit such preferences to varying degrees.

The challenge lies in ensuring these idiosyncrasies do not dictate our happiness or lead to frustration when things don't unfold as planned. The pandemic served as a valuable reminder for me, emphasizing the importance of gratitude even amidst complaints. As teachers often say to young students, “You get what you get, and don’t throw a fit.”

For example, while I prefer Coke®, I won’t let myself go thirsty at a ballgame just because only Pepsi® is available. I used to gravitate towards niche grocery items, only to see them vanish from shelves shortly after. Research even indicates that people like me often choose less popular options.

When the pandemic led to a rush on certain goods, I had to compromise on my favorite Costco toilet paper and settle for Charmin®. My workout routine was similarly affected; I had a specific order for my gym sessions—cardio, then weights, then machines. This worked well until crowds disrupted my schedule.

Last month, a change in the train timetable forced me to rethink a route I used for over a year to drop my son at school. Now, we face a 15-minute delay if we take the old path, prompting us to seek an alternative.

Life constantly throws unexpected challenges our way, so it's wise to start each day, week, or year with multiple plans—Plan A, Plan B, and even Plan C.

While I hesitate to label myself as overly attached, I have learned not to cling too tightly to things. Attachments can lead to stress, as items get worn out, discontinued, or lost. Your favorite cashier might leave for another job, or your babysitter may relocate. Life is unpredictable.

I still remember the impact of my best friend's move to North Carolina when I was ten; it left a lasting impression on my friendships.

Smooth seas never made for a skilled sailor—this truth resonates deeply. Life’s unpredictability teaches resilience. Too much routine can dull our senses and lead us to operate on autopilot. This is acceptable when mastering a new skill, but it’s dangerous when zoning out during rush hour traffic.

One of my all-time favorite quotes, “Smooth seas never made for a skilled sailor,” captures this sentiment perfectly. Engaging in repetitive tasks fails to challenge us adequately, hindering skill development for tougher situations. Cultivating flexibility and adaptability can significantly bolster our strength in the face of adversity.

Thus, whether you find yourself needing a new favorite chair at home or taking on a new role at work, embrace these changes. Life inherently demands a backup plan, whether you choose to prepare for it or not. You might as well find joy in the flexibility that comes with change.

Chapter 2: Finding Comfort in Adaptability

Embrace the opportunity that comes with change, and remember that flexibility can lead to growth and resilience.