When Things Don’t Go Your Way, It Is Critical to Adapt and Change Course

As we stepped onto the Camino de Santiago, I had a clear vision for how the next six days and 70 miles would unfold. I was eager to share the culture, food, and beauty of Spain with our group of men, while creating space for meaningful reflection on our personal lives, businesses, and leadership values.

As expected, not everything went according to plan. We faced sore joints, blisters, downpours, and even stumbled into a town celebrating its largest festival of the year, where thousands filled the streets throwing wine on one another. What was supposed to be a peaceful walk quickly turned into a test of patience, flexibility, and problem-solving. Click here to read last week’s blog about it.

While these might seem like small obstacles, each one forced us to rethink our plan. We had to stay sharp, adjust quickly, and stay focused on the bigger purpose. That’s why I want to share a practical approach for what to do when life, business, or leadership throws you off course.

After years in business and leading groups through experiences like the Camino, one thing has become certain, plans will fall apart. When they do, I’ve developed a mental framework that helps me stay grounded and respond with clarity.

1. First and most important, don’t overreact or get emotionally hijacked. Realize that the current situation or issue being presented is affecting your plans, goals and outcomes. It is very important to state and identify the issue.
2. Identify the severity of the issue and how it will affect the group, people, or intended outcomes you wish to accomplish. Rate it on a level 1-10 in terms of severity and impact.
3. Come up with 2-3 solutions that will solve the issue at hand.
4. Ask for feedback from others involved that may bring value or insight to the discussion, decision and potential outcome.
5. Make your decision and stick with it. Then go and execute.
6. Once you take action, look back and debrief on how this decision and action affected the overall outcome.
7. Always be thankful and appreciate the situation. Look at it as a way to grow, adapt, and continue to lead well in the face of adversity and challenge.

The biggest challenge came right at the end of what we called the Hike of a Lifetime. After six days on the trail, we reached Santiago and celebrated with dinner overlooking the cathedral. The next morning, we had a 9 AM flight to Madrid. I had something meaningful planned for the group once we landed, something I hoped would cap off the trip on a powerful note.

Here is how I applied the above steps:

1. I stayed as composed as possible and refocused once the group was informed.
2. We had to be in Madrid by 3:00 PM—no exceptions. It was 8:00 AM and the pressure was on.
3. After weighing options, the best plan was for me to give up my seat, rent a car, and drive Greg to Madrid, while the rest of the group flew ahead.
4. Everyone agreed it was the smartest move.
5. We hit the road, determined to make it work.
6. We arrived just in time, and the surprise event went on as planned. Despite the stress, the result was exactly what we hoped for.

Ironically, the best part of the trip was the 5.5-hour drive I shared with Greg. That conversation built a connection that never would’ve happened on a crowded plane. What felt like a setback became the most valuable part of the experience.

In leadership, business, or life, plans often fall apart, and that’s where growth begins. True strength comes from adaptability in leadership: the ability to stay flexible, act decisively, and remain focused on what matters most even when the road changes. Instead of resisting the interruption, learn from it and keep moving forward with perspective and gratitude.

Be sure to click here and download all my free resources for your life, leadership and business journey.

When Things Don’t Go Your Way, It Is Critical to Adapt and Change Course

what you can read next

Getting Out of Your Comfort Zone

Can You Unplug?

The Power of Laughter