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We’ve all been there—cruising along and suddenly hitting a dip in the road we didn’t see coming. It rattles everything. The truth is, life usually gives us warning signs if we’re paying attention. Ignore them, and the ride gets a whole lot rougher than it has to be.

The most successful detectives owe their success

to noticing small signs. Scouts are natural detectives

and never let the smallest detail escape them.

—  Robert Baden-Powell

Caution Dip Ahead That was the sign on our road warning drivers to slow down.

That dip wasn't subtle nor intentional—it was the result of a structural failure in a drainage pipe buried well below and long ago. It was huge and didn't play favorites. 

The locals called one deep groove, "Sophie's Revenge," because that was the name of the large boat being towed when the driver failed to heed the dip and paid a big toll.

Some dips in the road have a warning sign, and others abruptly appear with a bang!

You know how advice is.

You only want it if it agrees with

what you wanted to do anyway. 

—  John Steinbeck

We all navigate dips which may be processes, conflicts, bureaucracy, or even people. They force us to hit the brakes, slow down, and determine how to minimize damage. Skills of observation and attention to detail are helpful to anticipate the risks ahead.

A keen review of the calendar, key relationships, and energy levels are useful habits, as well as keeping boundaries that enable deep thinking, sustain flow, and allow rest.

Seek feedback from trusted mentors or friends who can protect from the blindspots.

Let your eyes look straight ahead;

fix your gaze directly before you.

Give careful thought to the paths for your feet

and be steadfast in all your ways.

— Proverbs 4:25-26

Dips can be constructive or destructive depending on our response to the situation.Preparation and agility are preferred over slamming on the brakes in chaotic panic.

Contingency planning is a smart move where we invest the time to envision possible scenarios ahead then ponder ways to slow down and adjust tactics to stay on track. This is a strength for some, making them valuable scouts to discern what's ahead, so humbly listen to their perspectives while staying courageously fixed on the goal.

Navigate the dips with wisdom and grace.  Heeding the caution signs is key to remaining steadfast in your purpose and thoughtful in your path.