Thriving in Chaos - Why Adaptability Is Becoming the Defining Capability

Sun, 30 Aug 2026 05:30:17 +0000

For decades, leadership capability was often assessed through two dominant lenses: IQ and EQ. IQ measured analytical capability while EQ focused on knowing oneself and understanding others. Both remain critically important.

But in today’s environment, particularly across the disability and aged care sectors, they are no longer enough on their own. A third capability is rapidly emerging as equally important: AQ: Adaptability Quotient.¹

Because the uncomfortable reality is this; organisations are no longer operating in stable environments where long-term plans unfold predictably. They are operating in systems defined by constant disruption, shifting policy settings, funding uncertainty, workforce pressures, regulatory escalation, and changing community expectations.

Articles by Stephen Fernando on Better Boards

Thriving in Chaos - Why Adaptability Is Becoming the Defining Capability