You'll Know it's Time to Pivot When . . .
"I have learned over the years that when one’s mind is made up, this diminishes fear; knowing what must be done does away with fear.” - Rosa Parks
Picture it: you and a group of friends are sitting around having dinner when one of them announces that she has finally decided to start a business; everyone cheers and ceremoniously raises their glass to congratulate her. As she details her ambition, you start thinking about what you've always wanted to do with your life. At this point, you realize you have one of two choices: you are inspired by your friend's courage and take a step toward your goal, or you do nothing and continue talking about what you want to do.
With all the sisterly love in the world, I'm here to tell you: stop talking and start doing.
One of the best books I've read in the past few years is "Pivot: The Only Move That Matters Is Your Next One" by Jenny Blake. I'm pretty sure this book found me during the height of the pandemic. I tend to go back to it again and again, year after year because there are few books I have found to be strategic and actionable.
Sidebar: I am a voracious reader – I read about 5 or more books a month cover-to-cover, which does not include the audiobooks I consume on my daily walks.
After reading 'Pivot,' I had a complete paradigm shift; I got the concept immediately.
I was feeling stuck. COVID brought about many challenges, and we were suddenly faced with the daunting realization that what we considered normal had to change. I was going through an existential crisis.
I had a decision to make: either tough it out and stay the course or figure out a way to recreate my future. Obviously, I chose the latter, but it wasn't easy. When it gets hard – especially when it gets hard – I have to remind myself of the decision I made because I wanted better.
Jenny says in this book that when you pivot, it should be considered a plan A, not a plan B. I love that. Essentially, this means that the decision to make the change is only effective if you make the change. It's the only thing that matters; it is the north star. She goes on to provide strategies and tools you can use right away.
Listen, get the book, sis. Or, if you've read something that aligns with this thinking, share it in the comments.
When I played basketball in high school, as a forward, sometimes I could help look for the opening shot. The guard may pop out to the 3-point line, and I passed the ball for a quick bucket. Or maybe I had the ball, but I kept one foot firmly planted as everyone converged to my position. I used my elbows and hip dips to clear a path, and I either took the shot myself or passed it to someone on my team to take theirs.
Here's the thing: although my foot was firmly planted as I held my position, I continued to look for opportunities. With a mindset like that, it was only a matter of time before we scored. If you feel like you’re stuck, it won't be like this forever. And you'll know it's time for you to pivot when you no longer see the chance for growth, there's no alignment with your goals and values, you are underappreciated, or it's just time for a change. Remember to be intentional, and if the first pivot doesn't work, try again.
It’s your time. Go for it. I’m rooting for you.
WatchList
Did you know that William Edward Hickson was credited with the quip “try and try again” ? Here’s his poem, written in 1837, that was 186 years ago…
Try, Try Again
It's a lesson you should heed,
Try, try again.
If at first you don't succeed,
Try, try again.
Then your courage should appear,
For if you will persevere,
You will conquer, never fear,
Try, try again.
Once or twice, though you should fail,
Try, try again.
If you would at last prevail,
Try, try again.
If we strive, 'tis no disgrace,
Though we do not win the race;
What should you do in that case?
Try, try again.
If you find your task is hard,
Try, try again.
Time will bring you your reward,
Try, try again.
All that other folk can do,
Why, with patience, should not you?
Only keep this rule in view,
Try, try again.
Inspiration
We recently celebrated International Men’s Day. The theme for International Men's Day 2023 was 'Zero Male Suicide', which highlights the importance of helping men and boys to manage their mental health.
International Men's Day is a global awareness day for many issues that men face, including parental alienation, abuse, homelessness, suicide, and violence, celebrated annually on November 19.
To all of the men who support InclusivelyHer, thank you.
Source: Wikipedia
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