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- Thriving on Change
“Anything real begins with the fiction of what could be. Imagination is therefore the most potent force in the universe. And you can get better at it. It’s the one skill in life that benefits from ignoring what everyone else knows.” - Kevin Kelly
You don’t need another post or video to recognized that this is a year of tremendous change and progress. But what about on a personal level? Real success doesn’t come from resisting change; it comes from rewiring how we see ourselves in relation to change. |
The most powerful form of adaptability isn’t just behavioral |
It’s when you go from saying: |
“I’m someone who has to learn this skill…” |
It’s not about doing more. It’s about becoming someone different: someone whose identity is rooted in resilience, curiosity, and reinvention. |
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From “Fixed” to “Flexible”
Harvard research shows that people who view their identity as flexible are more open to change, bounce back faster from setbacks, and take smarter risks. Adaptable identity is the foundation of mental toughness.“Do-Have-Be” vs. “Be-Do-Have”.
We’ve been taught to “do” things to “have” success before we can “be” confident or successful. It’s easy to get caught up in this flywheel of Do-Have-Be. However, in times of rapid change - when familiar pathways and routines are in flux, a new identify formula is needed!
If you start the day clearly focused on who you want to become, then consistently do the things that person would do, then the “having” will take care of itself, often faster than you can imagine! Remember: Be-Do-Have.Emily Balcetis on Visual Framing
A new identity literally brings a “new outlook on life”. Emily Balcetis’ research on visual perception shows that your mindset changes what you physically see in your environment. Adaptable people literally see more opportunity because they frame change as a source of fuel, not a warning light for fear. As you head into the new year, reframe old situations and be on the lookout for new opportunities and sources of abundance.The Future-Self Lens
Neuroscience confirms: the more connected you feel to your future self, the more likely you are to take action today. By adapting your identity to serve that future self, you make smarter decisions now.
2026 is proving to be a year of unprecedented and unexpected change! Instead of feeling a mountain of stress and confusion, instead - try taking on the identity of someone who “thrives on change”. |
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- Kevin Kelly