Have you ever been in a job interview or career discussion when someone asks you, “Where do you see yourself in five years?” I have, and when it comes up – and I haven’t prepared in advance – it always gives me pause.

The underlying motivation for asking that question probably has more to do with understanding your goals than your ability to see the future. But, if there’s one thing Generation X has learned since 1984, it’s that adapting to the world around us is vital if we want to get the most out of it.

I laughed today when my niece and I realized she – at 17 – is as old as iPhone. And, then I thought about how many things have changed in the world since I was her age. In tech. In business. In life. We’ve been in constant cycles of innovation and new ways of doing everything from driving to watching movies – to sharing and connecting with who and what we love. If you don’t join in, you’re not just missing out. You’re left behind.

But, planning for the future can be though. You can’t be too specific – unless you’re prepared to pivot. You have to give yourself room to maneuver around changes the world brings to life. You have to learn how to lean in to developments that are beyond your control. And, a lot of the time, you have to let go of what’s familiar for a new way of living so you can thrive.

So, how do you maneuver?

• Be real with yourself.
  Know yourself and what you want out of life.
  
  
• Neutralize insecurity.
  Accept that changes in the world around you are beyond your control.
  
  
• Stay curious.
  Learn from people of all ages – those younger and older than you.
  
  
• Check yourself.
  Examine your life periodically to make sure you’re happy with where you are.
  
  
• Adapt.
  Make changes in your life if you feel you need to pivot.

Whether you evaluate life in terms of your career, how you connect with tech, your family, your love live, your health and vitality – or anything else that makes up the full dimension of your humanity, the point is: Nothing stays the same forever. That includes the way you perceive and respond to the world around you.

So, you don’t need to fear change. You just have to understand it – and yourself.