Lately, I’ve been reflecting on what’s truly helped me navigate the ups and downs of life, and one word keeps coming to mind: adaptability.

I don’t mean just going with the flow because, honestly, sometimes life’s flow feels like it’s dragging you through a storm. For me, being adaptable has meant choosing to embrace whatever comes my way—whether it’s at work, in relationships, or with my personal goals—without losing sight of who I am.

Showing Up in Every Setting

There have been moments when I thought, “This is not what I signed up for.” Whether it was unexpected changes at work, personal setbacks, or even days when my plans crumbled before my eyes, I had two choices: resist it or find a way to adapt.

Somehow, each time I adjusted—stepped back, breathed, and found a new way forward—I surprised myself. I learned new skills, discovered strengths I didn’t know I had, and found joy in unexpected places.

At work, adaptability taught me to pivot when things didn’t go as planned.

In relationships, it helped me grow through challenges instead of shutting down.

With my personal goals, I learned to trust the process, even when it felt slow.

Embracing What Comes

Here’s the thing I’ve learned: Life doesn’t always ask permission before it changes. It just does. And while we can’t control every shift, we can choose how we respond.

For me, that response has been simple:

“I don’t know what’s next, but I’ll figure it out.”

And somehow, I always do. Maybe not perfectly, but enough to keep moving forward.

The Beautiful Thing About Change

When I look back at the moments I had to adapt, I realize those were the times that shaped me the most. The lessons came quietly, like whispers:

Change isn’t always bad; it’s just unfamiliar.

Flexibility doesn’t mean weakness—it’s strength in motion.

Some of the best things in life show up when you least expect them.

So, here I am, showing up for whatever life brings—ready to adapt, grow, and embrace the next chapter.

What about you? Have there been moments where life nudged you to adapt, even when you didn’t want to? I’d love to hear your stories.

Let’s keep unboxing the best of ourselves—one twist and turn at a time.

With love and strength

Priscilla Sombe/Unboxed and Free.