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Adaptability: The Palm Tree

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People exceptionally talented in the Adaptability theme prefer to go with the flow. They tend to be “now” people who take things as they come and discover the future one day at a time.
Clifton StrengthsFinder


For people high in Adaptability, interruptions are opportunities. While some may see interruptions as annoyances or distractions, a person with Adaptability sees them as exciting.  Even though there may be plans, those with Adaptability, see each day as a new possibility. Consequently, for them, the future is not a fixed destination; rather, it is formed by each decision you make in the present.

I was once given the image of Adaptability as a palm tree. In the middle of the storm, palm trees sway and bend, but never break; they are a strong place of stability during a not-so-stable time. The talent theme of Adaptability is just like that image. Because of this ability to acclimate, those high in Adaptability are especially valued during major changes or times of chaos. They respond to the needs of the present with a genuine sense of calmness that puts others at ease. They not only are calm during this time, but they also have an innate ability to navigate others out of chaos by showing what steps should be taken.

During your match meetings, work to incorporate strength-based conversations by asking your mentees questions off our Go-To Strengths Cards or some of Gallup’s Discovery Questions:
  • What needs to be done today? What are you responding to?
  • Did you use your flexibility today? What happened? How did things work out? 
  • What have you enjoyed today? 
  • How do you respond when things get really busy? Do your expectations of yourself alter during a rush or times of change? Do your expectations of other change?

When meeting with your mentee who may be high in Adaptability, honor this theme by being content with spontaneity. Not every minute of every match meeting must be planned; those with Adaptability will be able to tell you that life’s unplanned moments often lead to the greatest memories.
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