“It is strange how new and unexpected conditions bring out unguessed ability to meet them.”
― Edgar Rice Burroughs
When have you impressed yourself by rising to an unexpected occasion?
Traffic
The predictable part of how long it takes to drive somewhere is distance. But in many parts of the world the amount of traffic at any given moment is a far bigger factor in travel time. Once again, life becomes hard to predict because there are just so many people in it.
What helps you maintain your sense of connection to humanity when you are stuck in traffic?
Not What They Expected
“Just because plans don’t go as other people expect doesn’t mean you have failed.”
― Athan Fletcher
When have you been happy with a result that other people thought was a failure?
Plot Twist
One of the unexpected’s most delightful forms is the plot twist, the moment in a story that you never saw coming, but which seems inevitable in hindsight.
What is your favorite literary plot twist?
An Unexpected Move
“What is essential is to suddenly make a move totally unexpected by the opponent, pick up on the advantage of fright, and seize the victory right then and there.”
― Miyamoto Musashi
When have you used the element of surprise to your advantage in a competitive or contentious situation?