In the town of Redondo Beach in Southern California, across the street from a wide stretch of beach and atop a small hill, sits a blue house with white trim. Whoever lives there -- and from a sign that hangs on a tree, it appears to be “Nama” - has created an incredible collection of small objects. Placed in the dirt where the yard meets the public sidewalk, with signs such as "Friends Are Always Welcome" and "A Mermaid Sleeps Here,” are miniature vignettes made of tiny glass flowers, along with thumb-sized statues, religious and others.  It’s a little wonderland with paths and benches, birds, animals, trolls and fairies.

Probably even more remarkable than the idea someone has found this means of expression – which is placed in full view for others' enjoyment -- is that no one has stolen the items or vandalized the display. The person inside that house has created their own unique universe out of something quite ordinary.

At certain stages of life, people are "starting over." Shedding the empty nest? Breaking old habits? Relocating to a warmer climate? Downsizing? Looking for a place with more amenities, less maintenance? Moving closer to family?

To change something major requires a large dose of adaptability. An article on success.com quotes the renowned UCLA basketball coach John Wooden on the topic of adaptability:

“Adaptability is being able to adjust to any situation at any given time.

“In life, we all know that we can only be sure of a few things, specifically death and taxes. We can also count on change. We need to recognize change, grow with it and learn from it. Since change is inevitable, people who are inflexible, bullheaded or stubborn will never make it.. If we want to succeed, we must readily adapt to circumstances as they unfold—this includes both what we cannot change and what will take some time to change.

“If we fail to adapt, we fail to move forward."

So as we move on, what will we do, when we get there? Expect perfection? Find it's not what we imagined?  Breathe a breath of fresh air? Miss what we used to have? Live out our dreams? Bloom where planted?

If you're worried about your level of adaptability, don't fret. There are several things to keep in mind that will help you be more adaptable to situations that may arise. An important rule to remember is to keep an open mind and be open to change. You have to be willing to adapt in order to adapt. Whining about things and blaming others or yourself, are habits that should be eliminated in order to be more adaptable. Don't be afraid to engage in positive self-talk, especially if you don't have anyone to encourage or support you. Set small goals, rather than trying to make big changes too quickly.