Are you flexible or bouncy?

The need to be flexible - or adaptable - is on my mind, especially after watching handlers have to adapt during the Rally and Obedience Nationals. Big events tend to spotlight our weak spots, but that doesn't mean we only need to be adaptable at nationals; adaptability comes up in all sorts of situations.

The familiar topic of resilience may come to mind, and while both are necessary, there is a difference. Let's break them down and see how they apply to our world of agility, obedience, and rally.

What is Adaptability?

Adaptability is all about your ability to adjust to new conditions. In the context of dog sports, it means being able to change your strategy or approach based on what's happening in the moment. Maybe the ring layout is different than you expected, or your dog is reacting in a way that surprises you. Being adaptable means you can think on your feet and adjust your plans without missing a beat AND without freaking out.

For example, imagine you're at a trial, and the weather suddenly changes. It starts raining, and you can't do your usual ritual, which includes a ten-minute walk outdoors. If you're adaptable, you can "edit" your warm-up routine to accommodate the new conditions, ensuring your dog can warm up and perform at their best.

What is Resilience?

Resilience, on the other hand, is all about bouncing back from setbacks. It's your ability to recover from difficulties and keep pushing forward. In dog sports, this means not letting a bad run or a disappointing result get you down. Instead, you use those experiences to fuel your determination and improve.

Think about the times when things didn't go as planned. Maybe your dog missed a cue, or you made a mistake in your handling. A resilient handler takes these moments in stride, learns from them, and comes back stronger in the next run. It's about having the mental toughness to persevere, even when things are tough.

Why Both Matter

In dog sports, both adaptability and resilience are essential. Here's why:

1. Adaptability Keeps You Flexible: Environments and conditions can change in an instant. If you can't adapt, you might struggle to change plans or obsess about what you can't control. Being adaptable means handling whatever comes your way with grace and confidence, trusting in your experience and skills.
2. Resilience Keeps You Going: Setbacks are inevitable in any sport. Resilience ensures that you don't give up after a bad run. Instead, you use those experiences to build your strength and determination, making you a tougher competitor over time.

How to Build Adaptability and Resilience

So, how can you cultivate these qualities? Here are a few tips:

• Practice Different Scenarios: During training, expose yourself and your dog to various situations. Change up your walk-through, introduce distractions, and practice in different conditions. The more varied your training, the more adaptable you'll become.
• Reflect on Setbacks: After each run, take a moment to reflect on what went well and what didn't. Use these reflections to learn and grow. Remember, every mistake is feedback!
• Stay Positive: Maintain a positive mindset, even when things don't go as planned. Focus on the progress you're making and celebrate small victories. Resilience is built on a foundation of optimism and perseverance.

In sum ...

Adaptability and resilience are like two sides of the same coin. Both are crucial for success in dog sports, helping you navigate challenges and bounce back from setbacks. By cultivating these skills, you'll become a better handler and enjoy the journey a lot more.

Want more?

The Q-Members will be going deep on adaptability in August - Join Us!

If you need to become more resilient, check out my self-paced course!