Adaptation is the mark of a learning leader

One of the strongest memories I have as a leader who upon discovering I had left a 20-year marriage and was struggling to stay afloat financially, adapted my workload to stay at home for 2 days as I could not afford the petrol to drive to work.

I will never forget the compassion and the willingness to adapt on his part, the organisations' part and for me. I have worked hard since then to apply the same adaptability in every circumstance that requires it, taking on board the skill this man displayed in his leadership at engaging me further rather than dismissing me at a time where he could easily have done so.

Adaptation is more than flexibility; it is a defining success trait of a learning leader.

A learning leader adapts effectively, demonstrating an openness to feedback, a willingness to challenge assumptions and the capacity to adjust their approach in response to feedback and evolving contexts.

In the relational space of leadership, adaptation fosters resilience, innovation and a growth mindset and if executed with genuine intention, builds trust.

Relational adaptability shows employees that leaders are responsive not only to organisational or business change but importantly, to the diverse needs of the people they serve. This responsiveness reflects the essence of relational leadership, which is deeply informed by the leader's attachment blueprint, the patterns of relating to self and others, developed in earliest years of life, shaping both personal and professional relationships across lifespans.

The ability to attune, respond and repair is evidence of adaptability and a healthy attachment style, one that can be refined and strengthened through reflection, insight and guidance.

Leaders with secure relational practices provide psychological safety and flexibility, adapting work environments to empower individuals and teams. By blending consistency with responsiveness the leader creates conditions for growth and equips individuals, teams, businesses and organisation to navigate complexity with confidence.

🍃 Adaptation demonstrates responsiveness not instability, it is a sign of strength not weakness

🍃 Flexibility fosters psychological safety echoing the secure base of attachment theory

🍃 Adaptive leaders are better equipped to co-regulate emotions and maintain team trust in times of change

🍃 A learning mindset ensures adaptation is purposeful and reflective not reactionary

Reflective questions to ponder:

• When faced with change do you adapt with curiosity and openness or default to control and quiet resistance?

• In what ways do you learn from change rather than just reacting to it?

• What practices show your team you are adaptable and they are safe?