The Adaptive Mindset

When I was in the military a common phrase was “Improvise - Adapt - Overcome”. It’s amazing to me how so many years later I can look back and see how this mantra has affected so many areas of my life. The specific one I would like to illustrate here is how it has, upon reflection, influenced my tactics and the mindset I promote within it.

Many of my programs include a technique I call the Split Pass-flow. This technique can be found in everywhere from boxing to multiple martial arts and therefore you may know it by another name. 

Oversimplified, this technique addresses parrying a right or left-handed strike while simultaneously striking the opponent with the other hand. When I teach this technique, I sometimes have those that believe it’s only for a right hand or a left-hand strike depending on their own right- or left-hand preference.  

Here is where the mindset comes in...

When I relate that this technique will work with either hand and you have to adapt to the strikes as they come, some look at me cross eyed. I tell them that even the best fighter can be surprised, it’s ok. You may not see the first strike coming in time to effectively execute the technique, but you need to adapt and understand the flow of a fight. If you miss your opportunity on the first strike, there is likely going to be another, and another until either you neutralize the enemy or he defeats you. Timing is everything.  

I teach that it is not the BEST idea to step backward or retreat in a fight. That said, you may need to offline or better your position by moving rearward and in that case it’s ok. Better your position and measure your response. Being able to adapt is more than just physical. It is, in my opinion, more an exercise in mindset. Being able to mentally adapt in a physical altercation, especially when plans don’t go your way immediately, is essential in defeating your enemy.

This mindset can be applied to numerous areas of your life. When you get surprised or things don’t go as planned, it’s key to be able to acknowledge that this happens to everyone, that you’re not a victim, it’s just life. The quicker you can do that and then transition to being able to adapt to another strategy is critical to keeping a positive mindset and overcoming that struggle. Just know that it isn’t over, there will be other moments, but feel confident in the fact you can adapt and overcome!

Please note, this article is not based on the numerous scientific studies of the subject nor should it be looked on as any type of psychological or medical research. The words found in this article are based on my own theories and experiences. Nor am I professional writer, please excuse any and all grammatical errors.