Survival is our strongest need, according to many philosophers. Abraham Maslow lists it among our basic needs, which we must fulfill before we move on to satisfying other needs on our list of priorities. Survival is dependent upon making the necessary adjustments to changes in our environment. We must include these adjustments, as a part of our evolving skills.
The quality of survival is linked to our adaptation ability, therefore our success in making adjustment to competitors in the marketplace or whatever environment surrounds us. Our objective is to aim higher , rather than barely making it. We do not want to do just enough to get by. We want to thrive and prosper. A standard of living above the baseline of existence is a desirable goal. But to achieve this enhanced quality of life, we must make continuous adjustments to our behavior.
The poem Adaptation addresses the adjustments we need to make educationally, relationally and professionally to improve our prospects for higher earning power and fulfillment of purpose. Charles Darwin wrote about the survival of the fittest and that holds true in the development of species and in developing a personal profile competitive enough to make it in the business world. Adaptation encourages the survival of the fit; those who take the time and make the effort to anticipate challenges and respond to change. Only progress is satisfactory. Movement is essential to momentum.
Adaptation
This is what the world has come to,
If you’re lost, you’re left behind.
So, you need something they can’t
Take from you,
A treasure stored within your mind.
Survival has a new battle cry,
“Learn to adapt or learn to die.”
The work is becoming more difficult;
Best practices rapidly obsolete;
The business that focuses on results
Lacks tolerance for those who can’t compete.
You try to fail if you fail to try,
“Learn to adapt or learn to die.”
Distractions are greater, and times are hard,
And there are numerous reasons to quit.
Your peers may entice you to disregard
Being versatile and mentally fit.
I caution you to look them in the eye
And say learn to adapt or die.
Innovation is a survival tool;
Flexibility a requirement.
Those who survive and ultimately rule
Always adjust to their environment.
Industries and species that don’t comply,
“Learn to adapt or learn to die.”
There are many reasons to not achieve
But you owe it to yourself to attempt
To climb the mountain, but you must believe
The goal that was not captured was not dreamt.
Distinction or extinction will apply,
“Learn to adapt or learn to die.”
Copyright © 2011 Orlando Ceaser
Personal Reflections
-
How have you changed in the last year?
-
If someone has not seen you in several years, what change would they notice?
-
How has your business environment changed?
-
What adjustments have you made or must make to keep up with new demands in your profession?
-
How have you adapted to the technological demands of your profession?
-
How do you stay on top of matters that require your attention?
-
Alvin Toffler mentioned that technology has accelerated in this world of high tech, but we have not changed that much socially, in something he calls high touch. How are you socially keeping up with the times?
-
How are you adapting to find time for the ones you love?
More leadership information at OrlandoCeaser.com.
Leadership for the Soul 