Thriving During a “Bumpy Ride"

“We’re in for a 'bumpy ride.'" It’s one of the first things I said from the stage at a recent conference. Sure, it’s a “no duh" statement, but I saw heads nodding and sometimes you just have to say the thing that’s true out loud.

I’ve been thinking, our current state reminds me of my recent travels. Like my ride on a camel in Cairo, pitching awkwardly back and forth in a saddle. Or maybe the unforgiving Drake Passage at its worst, throwing our expedition ship up, down and sideways on our way to Antarctica. You yelp a bit, maybe reach for the barf bag in the nice holders on the wall, hold on to whatever solid thing you can grab onto, and you survive it.

At least in the case of my recent first-time adventures, my bumpy rides were rewarded with penguins and pyramids

But, in the case of the dramatic changes in our economy, politics and technology, who knows where this bumpy ride leads us. We are left with the anxiety of unknowns making it difficult to plan—personally and professionally.  

We’re all sitting on the edge of our “saddles,” everyday, wondering if our “camel” is about to lurch forward, backward or throw us to the ground.

So, how do we survive this unpredictable ride? How do we find some normal in the not normal?

I think the answer is remembering some of our "pandemic lessons:"

1. During times of chaos and change there is always opportunity. Those who are open to meeting the moment will find ways to improvise and innovate.

   
   

2. “Do the new." Strengthen new skills, learn to use new technology. It’s easier to adapt to change when you are supporting and growing new neuropathways in the brain.

   
   

3. Plan with flexibility and resilience in mind, financially, personally and professionally.
   

4. Uncomfortable=Creative. We rarely create something new when we are content. Pushed outside our comfort zone we often are forced to get creative in a good way.
   

5. Put your energy and voice into things you believe make a difference even in the smallest ways.

And the newest lesson: Dare to bodysurf those pitchy waves of uncertainty. Hold on to what is foundational to you.     

Me? I’m experimenting with AI, writing and teaching. 

As for exotic travel, I’m putting a pause on it.  As much as I love a good adventure, I’m good for one bumpy ride at a time.

Lu Ann Cahn 05.29.2025