08.04.11 The 5th Key for Evaluating a Prospective Partner's Readiness for Progress and Development

5. Is the Person Adaptable when Existing Approaches Fail?

Observe how the prospective partner responds when circumstances change or existing methods no longer work. Does the person acknowledge the need to adjust and seek wiser or more effective approaches; or does she or he cling to familiar routines even when evidence shows they are no longer effective?

Asenath must have noted Joseph’s ability to adapt when circumstances did not go as expected. When his life abruptly turned from a favoured son to a slave, sold by his own brothers, and later to imprisonment after being falsely accused of rape, the man adjusted to each situation and carried out his responsibilities with excellence rather than withdrawing when faced with loss and unjust treatment.

Joseph must have observed Asenath’s ability to adjust to changing demands as his role and responsibilities expanded. She managed a high-ranking household within the expectations of his position, adapting to the pressures and responsibilities that came with that role.

Brenda, unlike Joseph, was not ready to be adaptable. Despite having bought a marshy piece of land which would obviously pose construction challenges, the girl refused to adjust her building plans, even when vividly clear structural risks surfaced. You may recall how she insisted that her builders knew what they were doing, even after cracks appeared. Eventually, her rigidity led to the collapse of the girl’s building.

A progressive and development-oriented partner practices adaptability, recognising that changes in circumstances sometimes require new approaches. Rather than remaining rigid, such a person evaluates evidence, adjusts decisions and pursues wiser solutions when existing methods fail.