How adaptable are you when faced with the unexpected?
"The quicker I shifted from Me to We, the better everybody else was going to be. I had to learn adaptability and very quickly try to find a different way to do things." - Adam M Lamb
Whether it's a missing delivery, a broken oven, or a sudden change in staff?
As chefs, we operate in an incredibly dynamic environment where things can shift quickly.
The ability to smoothly handle these changes, solve problems creatively, and bounce back from failures separates the good from the great.
How adaptable are you when faced with the unexpected - a missing delivery, a broken oven, or a sudden change in staff? As chefs, we operate in an incredibly dynamic environment where things can shift quickly.
The ability to handle these changes smoothly, solve problems creatively, and bounce back from failures separates the good from the great. In this post, we'll explore practical tips on cultivating adaptability—a crucial skill for succeeding and innovating as a chef. Why does adaptability matter so much?
For one, it allows you to keep operations running smoothly when the inevitable curveball comes your way.
Whether modifying recipes, fixing equipment, or reassigning stations, you can make quick adjustments so guests don't notice a hiccup.
Adaptability also builds resilience to recover and learn from setbacks.
Instead of getting discouraged, an adaptable chef sees failures as opportunities for growth.
Finally, embracing change keeps you updated on the latest culinary trends and techniques.
By continuously expanding your knowledge, you'll be ready to implement new ideas in your kitchen. So, how can you develop greater adaptability?
Here are three key areas to focus on:
1.) Embrace Continuous Learning
Stay hungry (pun intended!) and open up your mind to new ingredients, methods, and trends.
Read industry publications, attend workshops, and chat with vendors - make learning an ongoing habit rather than a one-off event.
By constantly exposing yourself to new ideas, you'll build the mental flexibility to implement changes in your kitchen smoothly.
2.) Develop a Growth Mindset
Challenges and setbacks are inevitable in any kitchen.
The key is how you internalize and react to them. Do you beat yourself up endlessly over a failed dish?
Or do you pick yourself up, analyze what went wrong, and come back wiser?
Adopting a growth mindset focused on learning (not looking good) is essential to building resilience.
Pay attention to negative self-talk and consciously shift your inner dialogue to be more supportive.
Running a kitchen is ultimately about working with people, whether training new line cooks, resolving disputes, or updating your GM.
Strong communication ensures everyone is aligned, collaborative, and feeling heard - critical when navigating changes.
Speak clearly and directly, actively listen without judgment, and foster an environment where input is welcomed, not frowned upon.
Two minds often produce better solutions than one!
Adaptability is a skill that develops over years of practice.
But by focusing on continuous growth, avoiding fixed mindsets, and communicating openly, you can build the flexibility needed to lead a team through whatever the kitchen throws your way.
Stay Tall & Frosty,
