To stay competitive, today's leaders must change and conform to the latest standards on a nearly real-time basis. This calls for increased focus on developing and establishing the traits of flexibility and adaptability into all levels of the workforce hierarchy. Resistance to change is not a solution. An adaptive mindset is your best tool. To build or enhance your adaptability, consistently, practice the following:

• Mental rehearsal: Picture yourself acting in opposing ways to get to the same outcome. Identify which approach will likely yield the best outcome.
• Hold back your first response: Rather than reacting, adapt and thoughtfully respond to the situation. Stay in control--give it a second or third thought.
• Listen more: When you listen, you are suspending judgment. Use that information to adapt your behavior as needed.
• Get out of your comfort zone: Put yourself into very different situations. Operating in a variety of situations and roles will help you become more flexible and adaptable.
• Ask for feedback and feed forward: Leaders who reflect on their performance are more flexible in adapting to changes, and therefore better at identifying alternative and more effective methods.
• Be supportive: Having to support someone else's program or idea when you don't agree is a common paradox. Don't let the others know that you are not fully on board. Your role is to manage their vision and mission, not your personal vision. If you have strong contrary views, be sure to demand a voice next time around.