Meaning of the word "a reed before the wind lives on" in English

What does "a reed before the wind lives on" mean in English? Explore the meaning, pronunciation, and specific usage of this word with Lingoland.

a reed before the wind lives on

US /ə riːd bɪˈfɔːr ðə wɪnd lɪvz ɑːn/
UK /ə riːd bɪˈfɔː ðə wɪnd lɪvz ɒn/
"a reed before the wind lives on" picture

Idiom

a person who is flexible and adapts to circumstances will survive or succeed, whereas someone who is rigid may fail

Example:
In this changing economy, remember that a reed before the wind lives on; don't be too stubborn to pivot.
He survived the corporate restructuring by being flexible, proving that a reed before the wind lives on.