"Do not seek for things to happen the way you want them to; rather, wish that what happens happens the way it happens: then you will be happy." - Epictetus
Reflection
Software development rarely unfolds as planned. A feature gets cut, priorities shift, and a deadline moves. It's easy to get frustrated when reality doesn't match expectations. But frustration doesn't come from the change itself. It arises when we resist it.
Epictetus reminds us that peace comes not from controlling the external but from accepting what is. The best developers don’t just write great code; they navigate change clearly, adjusting their approach instead of clinging to an outdated plan.
Today's Insight
You can't control unexpected project changes but can control your response. Fighting reality wastes energy. Accepting it refines focus. When you work with change instead of against it, you stop dwelling on what should have happened and start shaping the best outcome possible.
Action Steps
- Recognize the Shift - Identify a recent change in your project. Did a requirement evolve? Was there a timeline adjustment? Was a feature scrapped?
- Assess Your Reaction - How did you respond? Did you resist or adapt?
- Adjust with Purpose - Take one action today to realign with the new direction. Refocus on what's within your control and move forward with clarity.
Consider This
How often does frustration over shifting requirements slow you down? What would happen if you leaned into it instead of resisting change as part of the process?