The art of adaptability

In a rapidly changing environment, it is no longer about survival of the fittest or the fastest, but rather survival of the most flexible.

- MARIE ROWLAND

You may have heard the epithet, “adapt or die.” In fact, this simple saying has been used in a number of settings, from coping with life to optimising business as well as in personal relationships. The thinking behind this notion was first proffered by English naturalist Charles Darwin in his seminal work, The Origin of Species, published in 1859. Still relevant today, Darwin contended that those species which have the innate ability to adapt to a changing environment have the best chance of surviving. He observed that “it is not the strongest of the species that survives, not the most intelligent. It is the one that is the most adaptable to change.” Those that can’t adapt inevitably die or even die out as a species. This serves as a warning for those who can’t or rather won’t change when the need arises.

Unlike our ancient ancestors, who literally had to think fast on their feet as they ran away from sabretooth tigers, self-preservation in the primal sense is not a fundamental concern for those living in the First World. However, in the age of anxiety and depression, mental and emotional preservation is a major consideration that occupies all humans as they try to make it in this world.

Inordinately high levels of stress in the Western world suggest that humans are still challenged by an ever-changing, fast-paced world which can be overwhelming at times. Whether dealing with a relationship breakup, job loss or illness or simply drowning under the pressures of life, how you adapt and cope is the measure of your own survival. In challenging times, it is up to you to recalibrate or reconfigure life in order to regain some sense of happiness and hope.

It’s in the genes and the jeans