Psychological flexibility helps people adapt to life changes
Behavioural scientist Rachael Skews explains how psychological flexibility aids individuals in adapting to obstacles like gym closures or remote work.
Gym closure forces new routine
A local gym closed down recently, forcing a writer to stop their fitness regime. Instead of joining one of five nearby gyms immediately, the person felt grumpy and ate more bread. Eventually they found a cleaner venue that costs a third of the original price. This new place is further away but the extra walk became part of the warmup routine.
Remote work caused misery
Janette, an executive assistant, hated her new home-based job where the CEO worked in another country. She wasted time crying and tried to find another position before realizing she did not thrive alone. Other assistants seemed happy working at arm's length within that unsocial organisation culture. She signed up for a local co-working space to get a community of people for lunch.
Research links flexibility to health
A comprehensive review of research connected elevated psychological flexibility with improved general mental well-being. Accepting difficult feelings encouraged people to take action rather than avoiding reality with positive thoughts. Psychologist Susan David defines emotional agility as being able to fully experience all of life's emotions.
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