Taking Wing With the Dragonfly
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. The dragonfly might be 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 have felt their wings have been clipped in their professional or personal lives. In many instances, what they have known their work world to be 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 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 relationship or your personal or work life is not as fulfilling as you would like, 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. How have you been proactive in your 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 become 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. Dragonflies have incredible flight patterns and can change direction quickly. 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 adapt-
able 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.
