At first glance, the topics of adaptability and Stanford's vision may seem unrelated. However, upon closer examination, it becomes clear that they share a common theme: the pursuit of personal growth and societal impact.

At first glance, the topics of adaptability and Stanford's vision may seem unrelated. However, upon closer examination, it becomes clear that they share a common theme: the pursuit of personal growth and societal impact.

Adaptability, as highlighted by Natalie Fratto in her TED Talk, is a crucial trait in today's rapidly changing world. It is not a fixed characteristic, but rather a skill that can be honed and developed. Fratto suggests that during interviews, one can assess a candidate's adaptability by asking "what if" questions and gauging their ability to come up with scenarios and articulate a strong vision. This approach goes beyond simply learning about a person's past experiences, but rather focuses on their willingness to change and evolve.

Similarly, Stanford's vision is centered around the idea of promoting the welfare of people everywhere. It recognizes that excellence in research and education should not be an end in itself, but rather a means to benefit society. This vision emphasizes the importance of anchoring research and education in ethics and civic responsibility, as well as promoting access and inclusion. It aligns with the concept of adaptability, as both emphasize the need to continually seek out new perspectives, explore different paths, and embrace change in order to make a positive impact.

To boost adaptability in oneself, Fratto suggests a few actionable steps. Firstly, she encourages playing at the intersections, meaning venturing into areas where one may not be an expert. This approach allows individuals to build a new set of skills by integrating knowledge from diverse fields. Secondly, taking on a devil's advocate role at work can help foster adaptability. By challenging the status quo and considering alternative viewpoints, individuals can develop a more flexible mindset. Lastly, keeping a failure resume or log can be a valuable tool for growth. It allows individuals to reflect on their mistakes, learn from them, and embrace the concept of unlearning.

In conclusion, adaptability and Stanford's vision both emphasize the importance of personal growth and societal impact. The ability to adapt to change and embrace new perspectives is not only crucial in today's world, but also aligns with the values and mission of Stanford University. By recognizing the commonalities between these topics and implementing the actionable advice provided, individuals can enhance their own adaptability and contribute to the betterment of society.