ach of us would like to believe that we're flexible, accommodating and generally easygoing. However, let's be honest and admit that we all feel a little irritated, resistant or annoyed when our plans change because of something beyond our control.

No matter how much time you spend preparing and scheduling your workdays and travel arrangements, some aspects of life you simply cannot control. For example, factors such as bad weather, mass transit delays, client schedule changes, employee turnover and illness can make chaos of your well-laid plans, but there's little you can do to prevent these unforeseen circumstances.

While your first reaction might be irritation or even anger, instead take a step back and see what opportunities this unexpected turn of events could mean for you. Today's inconvenience might be a factor in tomorrow's successes. Below are a few tips to help transform unanticipated events into positive experiences.

Face Change With a Positive Attitude

Don't assume all change is adverse. A cancelled flight might seem like bad news, but it could turn into an opportunity for success.

Example: Your flight is cancelled so you can't attend a presentation. The fact that someone else attends in your place seems like an inconvenience for both of you, but who knows? The replacement might secure some business that wouldn't otherwise have happened. Maybe he has more in common with the prospect, or he formed a personal relationship that helps grease the wheels for a sale. Who would have thought a flight cancellation or "weather in Detroit" would translate into more sales for your company?

Be Willing to Change

When life throws you a curve, remember to think in terms of the long run. Maybe at first it's inconvenient when a prospect cancels a meeting, but in the end, it might turn out to be a blessing.

Example: A prospect gets sick and cancels your meeting. Chances are if she met with you while feeling under the weather, she would have been distracted during your presentation.

Would you prefer to meet with her when she's focused on her splitting headache, or would you rather have her full attention in a couple of weeks? When she's healthy and rested, she'll more thoughtfully consider what you have to offer, which increases your likelihood of securing the sale.

Seek Change

When faced with a conflict or crisis, try to turn it into a positive opportunity. When an employee unexpectedly quits, it might seem like a predicament when actually it's a chance for a positive change.

Example: If an employee quits without warning, you're faced with an empty desk and no one to do his job. Your first instinct is to get that position filled as quickly as possible. But maybe this is a good time for change. Maybe this is the time to delegate and give a subordinate more responsibilities.

Or perhaps it's time to reorganize and change territories or job descriptions. Instead of panicking and hiring someone because you're under the gun, evaluate this opportunity to make a positive change.

When you think your day might turn into a nightmare because of an unexpected change in plans, relax. Just because it isn't progressing as scheduled, or events are out of your control, doesn't mean your day is doomed.

You never know what's around the corner. A change of plans could be the best thing that happens to you.