It’s only been four months of unemployment, but it feels so much longer…like life is sprinting past while I’m stuck in slow motion, living the same routine of nothingness on repeat. I’m trying to hold onto my sanity, keep my spirits up, and channel my bubbly Mary Poppins self… but let’s be honest, even Mary probably had some “off days” when the umbrella wouldn’t open.

Every day brings a new round of rejection emails, hopeful in-person interviews, and long stretches of waiting for that one email that could change everything. The hope is still there, but some days, it feels like it’s running on decaf.

So lately, I’ve been leaning into advice from my church, family, friends, and the thought leaders I admire. One quote that hit me right between the eyes was this:

“The most successful people are those who accept and adapt to constant change. This adaptability requires a degree of flexibility and humility most people can’t manage.” — Paul Lutus

Flexibility. It’s not just for yoga enthusiasts in their $120 leggings…it’s for all of us who are trying to navigate the curveballs life throws without dropping the bat entirely. Flexibility means accepting that my “dream job” might not look exactly like I pictured it. It means pivoting when an opportunity comes from an unexpected direction. It means adjusting my timeline, my expectations, and sometimes, even my definition of success.

And the humility part? That’s been the real teacher. Asking for help when I’d rather tough it out. Admitting when I don’t have all the answers. Taking feedback with gratitude instead of defensiveness.

Yes, unemployment can make you feel stuck. But I’m learning that stillness isn’t the same as failure…it can be a reset, a recalibration, a chance to stretch in ways I didn’t know I could.

So, no, yoga pants aren’t required to be flexible. But an open mind, a willing heart, and maybe a little humor definitely are. And when the right opportunity comes along and it will…I’ll be ready, stretched, and strong enough to grab it.