Adaptability

The Stoic philosophers said that when we make plans we should do so only ‘with reservation.’  But the flip-side of the coin simply means to act ‘without expectation’—in other words, to simply be prepared for any situation that may arise.  But this does not mean to be apprehensive in a worrisome way—after all, such fears may be unwarranted just as one’s hopes for everything to go without a hitch is unwarranted.  It is in this sense that such things are a matter of indifference for the Stoics. 

The problem is that we cling to this idea that our plans are set in stone and are unalterable (even when we claim that there is the possibility things will change).  By the same token, being fearful is the pessimistic version of the same thing, and should also be rejected.  This doesn’t mean one should deny such possibilities or remain blind to them.  Certainly, it is necessary to acknowledge the different possible outcomes, but this doesn’t mean one should uncritically buy into them either.  The point is to tend to the present moment as it unfolds here and now.

Reflecting on these ideas the past few weeks, and learning how to apply this skill in my own daily life, I think a more accurate way of stating this Stoic principle of acting ‘with reservation’ is this: the cultivation one’s ability to readily adapt to various situations, whatever they may be.  It is more reasonable (and effective!) to be attentive to the present moment than to project hopes or fears into the future.  

Interestingly, this sense of ‘adaptability’ is perfectly in accord with Darwin (which is not at all the same thing as ‘survival of the fittest,’ which is Spencer’s notion, not Darwin’s).  This principle is also found in Daoism (Zhuangzi’s flexible willow tree, as opposed to the stiff pine which will break in strong winds).  Life becomes easier being able to adapt to situations, to rely on several skills and tools at one’s own disposal to best accomplish one’s goals rather than stubbornly insisting on one particular way, only to become frustrated when things turn out differently. 

Of course I’m only still learning.  I do have some initial frustration and annoyance when the unexpected comes up, altering my plans.  But my reaction time is at least improving somewhat (usually!).  I think that the smaller the gap of time is between the initial annoyance, followed by acceptance, the easier this becomes.  So my goal at the moment is to reduce that gap.  If I can do that, then I think I will also be more effective in handling any situation, rather than allowing myself to get upset over something that is not, in the Stoic sense, properly ‘mine.’