Starting a new role, joining a new team or entering a different culture can be unsettling.

The expectations feel different.

The responses you receive aren't what you expected.

And sometimes, without realising it, you start holding back.

In this Quick Spoon, Ross explores a common misunderstanding about adaptability. It's not about becoming smaller or suppressing what matters to you. It's about finding a way to express what matters in a way that fits the context.

Reflection Questions

Where are you currently holding back more than you'd like?

What's one small way you could contribute more visibly this week?

People Soup: Real conversations about work, leadership, and being human — grounded in behavioural science, with practical ideas you can actually use.

If this episode resonated with you, please consider following People Soup, leaving a rating or review, or sharing it with someone who might find it useful.

Every recommendation helps more people discover practical, evidence-based conversations about work, leadership and being human.

• Why good leaders go off track - A People Soup special #1 - People Soup
• Leadership beyond autopilot - The McIntosh ACT Leadership Framework

Visit Ross' Website.

Connect with Ross on LinkedIn

People Soup on Instagram which also features plenty of Ross' photos of the Andalusian life

He's now also on Bluesky

The People Soup Website on CAPTIVATE