What Doesn't BEND .. BREAKS!

This blog was originally posted in a guest capacity for Loren's World (http://www.lorensworld.com/ ). I wanted to re-post and share the actualy SONG that inspired the piece. See video @ the bottom and ENJOY!!

I was driving the other day and a track I had not hard in a long time came blasting through my speakers, called “Buildings & Bridges” by folksinger Ani DiFranco. I have always loved her music and how she, through her lyrics has given intelligent women a voice since the 90’s. The particular lyrics of this song struck a chord with me (pun intended)


“Buildings and bridges are made to bend in the wind to withstand the world, that's what it takes All that steel and stone is no match for the air, my friend what doesn't bend breaks what doesn't bend breaks”


The message was so obvious and clear (to me); it is those who cannot compromise, be flexible or embrace change in life that seem to have the hardest time and eventually, break or break down. The ability to compromise in life at work, in relationships and friendships is the foundation for success. Imagine a world that was so rigid, stubborn and unmoving when change is presented or anything that conflicts with its ideals.


Well that is the world that some people live in, sadly. I am not saying that you should not hold your position when there is something that you really believe in or feel strongly about but choose your battles. Many of what we perceive to be challenges or negatives in life is just change wearing a different cloak and it ends up not being worth our energy to resist or maintain our foothold in our current position.


Try taking a look at a situation from another’s perspective; it makes the opportunity to be flexible a little easier. Never underestimate the power of creative negotiations, there can be 2 winners you know! I think it would be fair to say that we all have our breaking points as human beings but I know I would like to extend mine by trying to be more flexible and open to compromise.


Change is the only guarantee in life (with the exception of death and taxes of course) so why be so resistant to it when it knocks on your door? Be open and your life transitions will seem a lot easier. We all have tough exteriors to be able to withstand what the world throws at us and to be able to live in a world that can be harsh at times, BUT to actually be successful in it we must find the flexibility that lies just behind those walls.