From Immigrant Mentality to a Growth Mindset. Part 4
Adaptability
When you are frustrated and do not know a way out, only flexibility and moderation toward difficulties will save you.
In one of the companies I worked for, I led a large-scale international learning project to teach all managers in a new type of leadership based on Secure Based Leadership model. During that period, organization was undergoing a cultural transformation, and as a L&D manager, my task was to align the program with the goals and priorities of the Ukrainian branch, tailor it to meet the participants' needs, launch a module learning program with measurable results, and conduct 360-degree feedback at the beginning and end.
In short, I did everything to ensure the project's results were clear and visible.
One of my favorite parts in that program was about Adaptability and Courage to Change.
You’re likely familiar with a range of management theories — from Management 1.0, 2.0, and 3.0 to Servant Leadership. One particularly influential model is Situational Leadership, which emphasizes that effective leaders must adapt their style based on the context and the competence or maturity of their team members. The model outlines four main leadership styles — Directive, Coaching, Supportive, and Delegating — applied according to the individual or team’s readiness to take on a task.
Although leadership thinking has evolved significantly since the publication of The One Minute Manager, Situational Leadership remains remarkably relevant today — not only in managing teams, but also in navigating complex life transitions, such as unexpected immigration.
If you’re strong in situational adaptability, you understand the importance of flexibility — because no two situations are ever exactly the same. You know that what works in one context may fall flat in another.
Take job searching, for example: the process in Ukraine versus Canada differs not only in how you apply for roles and structure your resume, but also in the way interviews are conducted and candidates are evaluated.
Cross-cultural differences you encounter in a new country demonstrate that what worked well in your homeland may not only be ineffective but also detrimental in the new society.
Adjusting behavior daily in real-time enhances versatility in various situations. For me, it has always been crucial to remember that once you cross a border, you enter a new culture with its own rules, both tangible and intangible, created and respected by the locals.
Therefore, the first thing I did upon arriving in Canada was to seek out Canadians who could help me quickly adjust my mindset, habits, and communication style to the local unspoken rules. I attended various events, observed myself and Canadians, and analyzed what I should change in my personal and interpersonal behavior and my communication style to fit my specific needs.
Here are some recommendations that helped me develop and strengthen the competence of Adaptability:
70%. Practical Learning.
Actively seek out situations that challenge your adaptability and respond strategically to reach your goals. Networking, engaging with locals, sharing your experiences through articles, and attending community events are excellent ways to do this.
Set tasks for yourself that require you to step into new roles — for example, acting as a spokesperson on a difficult issue or leading a team of beginners. Experiment with different approaches and ask for feedback to refine your methods.
Learn new strategies for adapting to unexpected challenges by connecting with those who have faced similar situations. Most people are eager to help. Here in Canada, the “Pay It Forward” mindset is strong. I often hear stories like, “My grandparents fled war and brought me here. I understand your situation and want to help.” This spirit of generosity and humanity inspires me to offer support whenever I can.
Explore ways to handle change smoothly by adjusting your methods, process, or approach to stay effective. “One step at a time” - one of the favourite Canadian expressions. And they are right.
Focus on finding solutions rather than problems and take action when unexpected events occur. Result oriented approach works better than Problem oriented one.
Ask trusted people for feedback: When do I struggle with changes?
What can I do differently when faced with change?
What adaptations could I have made in the last change situation?
6. Make a KANBAN desk with all your upcoming tasks. It helps to visualize your path.
20%. Social Learning.
Find a mentor or coach who can guide you in adapting effectively to new situations.
Collaborate with colleagues when facing change — their experiences can offer valuable insights.
Observe people who adapt quickly to new circumstances and learn from their strategies. What can you apply to your own approach?
Work with consultants or professionals used to dynamic environments, such as project managers or digital nomads, and see how they address evolving needs.
10%. Formal Learning.
Movies:
Green Book. 2018.
The Shawshank Redemption. 1994.
Forrest Gump. 1994.
Erin Brockovich. 2000.
Maid. 2021.
Hidden Figures. 2016.
Books and articles:
Hidden Potential. A. Grant.
Adaptability: How to survive change you didn’t ask for. M. Ryan.
How to Change Things When Change Is Hard. C. Heath.
Why Getting Comfortable With Discomfort Is Crucial To Success. Forbes.
AdaptAbility. How to rise and shine when shift happens. W. McNair.
What Matters Now: How to Win in a World of Relentless Change, Ferocious Competition, and Unstoppable Innovation. G. Hamel.
To be continued....
July 17, 2024