Wildebeest Wisdom: Adapt or Die
Wildebeest are very adaptable and are one of the few species that have extended their range in the last 50 years in Africa. The Great Serengeti Wildebeest Migration is the largest mammal migration in the world and is one of the world’s most spectacular wildlife events. They know that for survival, change and adaptation between the dry and rainy season, to a new environment, is a must.
Like the wildebeest, we are often faced with unexpected changes in life. Noticing small changes sooner helps you to adapt to the bigger changes that are to come. People tend to acknowledge that change and adaption are a part of their professional work, but very few of us accept and acknowledge adaption to change as a reality in our lives.
We must all learn not only to deal with change, but to anticipate it, monitor it, adapt to it quickly, enjoy it and above all, we must be ready to change again and again. Accept that change is unavoidable, don’t be afraid to change, only fools remain static and don’t adapt and adjust. Smashing through a door with a big hammer will get you through the door once, but figuring out how to turn the handle and open the door will allow you to use it many times. If you’re not part of the solution, you’re part of the problem.
See the issues from both sides, orientate yourself to the different points of view involved and then adapt your strategy to achieve the ultimate goal.
From African Wisdom by Dr. Lanette Hattingh
Dear Net Buddies,
How might the wildebeests’ strength to adapt be useful to you in the current pandemic period?
Have you thought about how you might adapt to take more control over things that affect you? For example, how could you take more responsibility for your education now that schools are struggling?
If you have ideas of how to adapt but need extra help or tools – what is it that you need to take action?
Extra credit: If it takes awhile for you to get the extra help or tools you need, what will you do in the meantime? How can you take smaller steps in the same direction to achieve your goals?
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