Lessons to Ponder From the Dragonfly
Have you ever had something that you felt was a symbol of meaningful change for you? For me that symbol has always been a dragonfly. It seems whenever I am pondering the outcome of a situation or unsure about moving forward in a particular area, a dragonfly appears. And because this symbol always seems to produce some kind of important change or outcome for me, I have done some study of them.
This insect, in the order Odonata and suborder Anisoptera, it is not a true fly but is a skilled, strong and agile flyer. The dragonfly has a fascinating life cycle. It goes through three phases in its metamorphosis: from egg to nymph to spectacular dragonfly. Much of its existence is spent as a water creature, a nymph that breathes through gills and feeds on worms and tadpoles. Later, it undergoes some 15 skin changes until its wings emerge.
Both dragonflies and human beings are constantly adapting to life. Could it be that the dragonfly is teaching us that, to survive any environment, we need to shed our skin and let go of old forms? It’s only then that we can become our best selves.
So many people I have talked to lately feel their wings have been clipped in their professional or personal lives. In many instances, what they have known in their work world has been severely altered or changed. And those career changes may have altered other things in their life as well. But our friend the dragonfly can teach us some important life lessons. Maybe being vulnerable to change is our superpower. Wings might take time to develop, and the flight path might not necessarily be linear. But willingness to adapt may be just the ticket needed for success in this new phase of life. So what exactly can dragonflies teach us about our own transformation?
Let’s take a look:
1. Dragonflies See It All
Scientists are studying dragonflies for applications that might very well make sense in our lives. In a Wall Street Journal article, “Scientists Tap Dragonfly Vision to Build a Better Bionic Eye,” author Rachel Pannett writes that dragonflies have a wide field of vision — 360 degrees. They see everything around them. Are you seeing all of the resources around you if you are dealing with major change? Where have you had blinders on? What have you not been seeing? Are you willing to widen your vision to utilize more of the resources available to you? By properly investigating on your own or with the help of a trusted mentor, counselor, teacher or friend, you might discover you have more options.
2. Dragonflies Know How To Adapt
Dragonflies’ adaptations make them one of the most successful predators on Earth. In an article called “Not a dragon, not a fly — just nature’s most effective predator,” author Morgan Barnes describes how dragonflies can usually fly with a damaged or even broken or missing wing, among other incredible feats. If you are feeling stuck in an unfulfilling personal relationship or work life, how can you mimic our friend the dragonfly?
3. Dragonflies Make Haste Slowly
The dragonfly is a speedy yet methodical predator that knows when to dive and when to take its time. It also can change direction quickly. How have you been proactive in your life or job search? Have you demonstrated determination and patience in going after the results or progress that you want and need? If you have a big personal goal in mind, how can you do the careful planning to make that goal a reality? There is not a “one step fits all” method in any of these endeavors, but progress is possible if you put forth diligent effort to gain your new set of wings, or work with the ones that may be broken.
4. Dragonflies Make the Most of Where They Are
Dragonflies are typically found near water sources like ponds, rivers and wetlands. How would a trip to a nearby lake or even a faraway ocean help you relax, reboot and reinvent yourself? Would getting away allow you to see things from a different perspective? Vacations or trips away always allow me to shed old forms and come back to my day-to-day routine with a different attitude and perspective to be able to make change happen in a positive way.
We are all dealing with various situations that require us to change our flight patterns to achieve success. Take the lessons of the dragonfly to be motivated, flexible and adaptable in all your endeavors. Ignite hope and confidence in yourself and your abilities as you lay the groundwork for new opportunities. Let the beautiful lessons of the dragonfly allow you to embark on a journey of transformation and soar to new heights of fulfillment. With the right attitude and a plan of direction, you can create success for your new adventure. I truly believe me seeing the many dragonflies lately will open new doors that will provide meaningful experiences and exciting changes!
