Introduction

The most important thing in this world is the ability to adapt. People discuss the definition of "smart" and being "highly intelligent" where they measure different things; IQ, grades, education, social awareness and so on. I think the best measure of how smart someone is, is how well they can adapt to the world around them. If you can adapt to anything, you can't lose. You can become a master of all trades.

My mom always used to tell me that I managed to excel in everything I decided to do; School, boxing, gym, work, games, youtube and everything in-between. When I looked at my younger brother who seemed to do the complete opposite, I pondered on how I could help him. Until I realized: most people have a problem adapting to different settings and situations. The simple answer to success is: Learn to adapt.

1. Observe in silence

Most people jump into things without really studying what they're getting into. They open their mouth too early without thinking, they jump to conclusions without analyzing and act before they plan.

The first step in any situation is to observe in silence before you do anything. Don't talk, don't do anything, just observe. In a social situation, look around you, what do you see? How are people acting? What vibes are they giving away? What relations do they have to eachother? Gather enough information before doing anything. Pay attention to the details. Do this consciously.

You want to buy a product? Do your research. What are you looking for? What is the price? What will said product do for you? Do you really need it? What other options are available? Reviews? I understand that most of you will think this is just common sense, but plenty of people still don't do this.

2. Analyze

After gathering all the information you can get your hands on, you need to analyze it. What do you know? Can you get more information? Is it enough to act on? Have you got the right information? Possible risks? If you are not good at analyzing information the right way, you need to keep practicing until you start doing it right.

3. Act discreetly, in silence.

Are you getting a new job to buy a new car? Do you have a new goal? Keep it to yourself. No one needs to know everything you're up to or your next move. Only you need to know. Why is that? Because other people who haven't gone through the process of making the decision might set you on the wrong path. If you've calculated everything right, you won't need their opinions. By practicing making decisions on your own, you will get better at it eventually until the majority of your decisions lead to success. If you do need advice, by all means get it. But don't let people know your intentions. Get your advice without revealing your entire plan. Ask your questions in a theoretical way, or as if you are asking out of curiosity. Studies show that when you tell people your goals, they lose their true value to you because your brain tricks you into feeling you've already achieved them before even starting. This is why it's also important to keep them to yourself to remain on the right path.

Extras

Bruce lee has a famous quote for this: "You must be shapeless, formless, like water. When you pour water in a cup, it becomes the cup. When you pour water in a bottle, it becomes the bottle. When you pour water in a teapot, it becomes the teapot. Water can drip and it can crash. Become like water my friend." Follow this for success in anything you do.