AQ - The Quotient of the Day

Quotient of the Day

We’ve heard of IQ, EQ (emotional intelligence), CQ (cultural intelligence), SQ (social intelligence).

Let’s introduce 𝗔𝗤 – 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗔𝗱𝗮𝗽𝘁𝗮𝗯𝗶𝗹𝗶𝘁𝘆 𝗤𝘂𝗼𝘁𝗶𝗲𝗻𝘁.

The ability to:

• Pivot
• Problem-solve
• Adjust in real-time
• Question assumptions
• Unlearn old ways of thinking
• Alter direction based on the learnings
• Work with change instead of resisting it
• Be willing to fail and learn from mistakes
• Not to be afraid of the unknown
• Be innovative and creative
• Overcome challenges
• Be curious
• Adapt

All of these skills are crucial to the future of work and will increasingly factor into the careers that people can expect in the coming years.

With the pace of change in our work lives, the need for training on new technologies, systems, processes, the ability to adapt has never been more important.

For some it’s easy and comes naturally whilst others find change is difficult.

𝗪𝗵𝘆 𝗶𝘀 𝘁𝗵𝗶𝘀 𝗶𝗺𝗽𝗼𝗿𝘁𝗮𝗻𝘁?

Because as the pandemic showed us, the unknowns can throw a pretty big curve ball, and when that happens the ability to adapt quickly is key to both survive and then also thrive.

It demonstrated the importance of being able to assess a situation, identify options including unpalatable ones, and having the courage to propose solutions which challenge established ways of thinking.

The Adaptability Quotient requires

• ✓   Flexibility by both employer and employee
• ✓   A safe environment in which to fail and learn
• ✓   Open minded management
• ✓   A willingness to take calculated risks
• ✓   Learning to be comfortable with being uncomfortable

As we enter unknown waters with the unpredictability of climate change, the urgent need for green and sustainable initiatives amongst the many challenges, it will be those with a high AQ who navigate us through.

The good news is that we can all develop and grow our mental flexibility over time.