"The more I see, the more I think that the world is fluid and requires our inner flexibility."

Life is constantly changing, isn’t it? That’s pretty much the core of it. The world is in a perpetual state of flux, and if we expect to thrive, we need to adapt—we need inner flexibility. Imagine a river, always moving, always changing course slightly depending on the weather, the land, the obstacles it encounters. In the same way, our lives require us to be flexible, to navigate the twists and turns that come our way.

This concept isn’t new. Think about the ancient Greek philosopher, Heraclitus. He famously said, "You cannot step into the same river twice." His point? Change is the only constant. Heraclitus believed that everything is in a state of becoming. Fast forward a couple of millennia and here we are, still grappling with the same reality.

Let’s ground this in a concrete example. Remember the early days of the COVID-19 pandemic? Overnight, everything changed. Workplaces shut down, schools closed, and we all had to figure out how to navigate a new world of social distancing and remote work. Those who adapted quickly—who found new ways to work, stay connected, and even embrace the slowdown—fared better emotionally and professionally. That’s inner flexibility in action. It’s being able to pivot, to bend without breaking.

So, how can you apply this wisdom in your own life? First, cultivate a mindset of adaptability. Start small. Embrace changes in your daily routine. Maybe take a different route to work, or try a new hobby. Challenge yourself to step out of your comfort zone regularly. This builds mental resilience, making bigger changes feel less daunting.

Next, practice mindfulness. Stay present. Notice how you're feeling and reacting to changes around you. By being aware of your internal state, you can better manage your responses and maintain your equilibrium.

Imagine this: you’re at a coffee shop, catching up with an old friend. They tell you they’re moving to another city for a job opportunity and they’re scared—worried about the unknowns. You listen, and you get it. Change is scary. But then you remind them (and yourself) of all the times you’ve navigated changes before—starting college, your first job, moving to a new place. Each time, you adapted. You grew.

You can tell your friend about the time you had to switch careers. Maybe you were in finance and decided to pursue your passion for photography. It was nerve-wracking. There were financial uncertainties and a steep learning curve. But you embraced the change. You took classes, networked with other photographers, and built a portfolio. Now, you’re doing what you love, and you’ve never been happier. That’s the power of being flexible—of moving with the changes rather than resisting them.

So, next time you face change, think of yourself as that river. Be fluid. Embrace the flow. Remember, it’s not about avoiding the rocks and rough patches—it’s about navigating them with grace and flexibility. Life, after all, isn’t about staying the same—it’s about growing, evolving, and becoming the best version of yourself. And that requires a bit of inner flexibility.