The Power of Pivoting

Albert Einstein said, “The definition of insanity is doing the same thing over and over and expecting different results,” and it’s true!  To pivot means to turn or rotate. Sometimes things happen (or don’t happen) in our life when we need to say to ourselves “it’s time for a change!”

When you feel like calling it quits, curling up in a corner, banging your head against the wall, or crying, it’s probably time for you to pivot. There are many areas in our life that call for a pivot every now and then.

Friendships

It’s a reality that friendships come and go. When we sense that some of the people in our life are no longer supporting us, have become jealous of us, are draining our joy, or have become toxic, then it’s time to pivot from that relationship and move on.

As a side note to this point, it’s important for us to remember if we desire to surround ourselves with people who lift us up, then we have to reciprocate and be that kind of friend as well.

Environment

Sometimes a simple change in environment can do wonders.  Are you having a writer’s block?  Are you becoming distracted in your home office?  Change it up a bit and head to your local coffeehouse or library.  Are you frustrated by the crime in your neighborhood?  Perhaps it’s time to begin the process of relocating.  Is the gossip in the lunchroom a turn-off? Take your lunch at your desk or in your car.

Thoughts

Our thought life is where drastic change can take place!  Try these simple things and watch what happens:

• Opt for voicing your appreciation instead of complaining.
• Recognize your achievements instead of calling out your faults.
• Stand up tall during trials instead of acting like a martyr.
• Make the best of what you have instead of crying “woe is me.”

Pivoting from negativity is truly non-negotiable and everyone needs to fine-tune their thoughts and mindsets on a regular basis.

Habits

Mahatma Gandhi said, “Be the change you wish to see in the world.”  This is so true when it comes to our bad habits.  Tired of smoking?  Get a nicotine patch, get hypnotized, or go cold turkey!  Is excessive drinking ruining your relationships, your job, and your health?  Join a group and get help!  Frustrated with your poor health?  See a nutritionist, join a gym, or hire a trainer!

Business

Are you seeing a decrease in revenue?  Is employee morale dipping?  Is competition closing in on you?  Are your customers fleeing?  It’s time for a pivot.  Hire a business coach.  Begin collaborating in the office.  Consider “getting back to the business basics” that worked in the first place.

Relationships

There are times when we take our relationships for granted and they begin to flat-line.  When this happens pivoting can be the antidote.  Consider spicing things up a bit.  Plan a date night.  Buy “The 5 Love Languages” book and discover what makes your significant other “tick.”  Schedule a weekend get-away.

The only way that we can live is if we grow.  The only way that we can grow is if we change.

I’ll leave you with one of my favorite quotes: “Your life does not get better by chance, it gets better by change.” – Jim Rohn