pivot | managing life's curveballs

Life is a juggling act. Between work deadlines, family obligations, and personal goals, it often feels like there just aren’t enough hours in the day. And just when you think you’ve got it all under control, life has a way of throwing a curveball. Maybe that dream job isn’t so dreamy, a relationship dynamic shifts, or your personal goals suddenly don’t align with your reality. When this happens, what do you do? You pivot.

Pivoting isn’t about giving up—it’s about adapting. In my launch of senseory, I realized that separating the app from the essential oil box was crucial. I had to pivot and it took me months to come to this realization. While the app excels in workplace wellness and HR analytics, trying to integrate it with the well-being essential oils in my messaging was frustrating, difficult to explain, and, frankly, anxiety-inducing. It’s about recognizing when something isn’t working and having the courage to change direction for the sake of your well-being. The good news? Pivoting is a skill you can cultivate, and it can lead to incredible growth, peace, and happiness - I know I feel better already.

Signs It’s Time to Pivot

Before diving into the “how,” let’s talk about the “when.” How do you know it’s time to make a change? Here are a few telltale signs:

1. You Feel Drained Instead of Energized – Whether it’s your job, a relationship, or a side hustle, if something consistently depletes your energy rather than fuels it, it might be time to reassess.

2. You’re Stuck in a Cycle of Frustration – If you’re constantly hitting walls, facing resistance, or feeling like you’re going nowhere, it could be a sign that you need a new approach.

3. You Daydream About Something Else – If your mind constantly drifts to a different path—whether it’s a new career, lifestyle, or creative endeavor—it’s worth exploring why.

4. Your Body Is Sending Signals – Stress, anxiety, and even physical symptoms like headaches or fatigue are ways your body tells you that something is off balance.

5. You’re Not Growing – If you feel stagnant and uninspired, it’s likely time to shake things up.

Small Hacks to Make the Pivot Less Scary

Change can feel overwhelming, but small steps can make it manageable. Here are some simple hacks to help you pivot with confidence:

1. Reframe the Situation – Instead of seeing change as failure, view it as redirection. Every shift brings new opportunities and growth.

2. Start with a Micro-Shift – You don’t have to overhaul your entire life overnight. Start with small changes—tweaking your routine, exploring a new hobby, or delegating a task at work.

3. Listen to Your Inner Voice – Take quiet moments to reflect. Journaling, meditation, or even taking a walk in nature can help you tune into what your gut is telling you.

4. Seek Advice and Support – Talk to trusted friends, mentors, or a coach. Fresh perspectives can help you see possibilities you may not have considered.

5. Test the Waters – If a big change feels daunting, dip your toes in first. Thinking about a career switch? Try freelancing or volunteering in that field before making the leap.

6. Give Yourself Permission – Sometimes, the hardest part is simply allowing yourself to pivot. Trust that it’s okay to change directions for your well-being.

Why Pivoting Is Essential for Your Health

Stress is often the result of staying stuck in a situation that no longer serves you. When you embrace change and listen to your needs, you reduce stress, increase resilience, and improve overall well-being. Pivoting can lead to better sleep, more energy, and even a stronger immune system (science backs this up!).

On a mental and emotional level, embracing change fosters a growth mindset. It teaches you adaptability, confidence, and the ability to navigate challenges with grace. You become more in tune with what brings you joy, and that joy radiates outward, positively affecting those around you.

The Ripple Effect: How Your Pivot Impacts Others

When you make a positive change, the benefits extend beyond you. Here’s how:

• You Become an Inspiration – Your willingness to pivot encourages others to do the same when they need to.

• Your Relationships Improve – When you’re happier and healthier, you bring more positivity to your relationships.

• You Set an Example for Boundaries – Choosing to pivot shows others that it’s okay to prioritize well-being over obligation.

• You Create a Chain Reaction of Growth – As you shift, you open doors for new connections, opportunities, and experiences that enrich not only your life but also the lives of those around you.

Embrace the Pivot: It will all be ok 

At the end of the day, life is not about rigidly sticking to one path just because you started down it. It’s about learning, growing, and having the courage to adjust when needed. Pivoting is not a sign of failure; it’s a sign of wisdom. Growth only comes from discomfort and, of course, acting on that to find a new ‘balanced’ normal.

So the next time you feel like something isn’t working, take a deep breath and remind yourself: you have the power to pivot. And with each pivot, you get closer to a life that truly fulfills and energizes you.

Here’s to embracing change and finding balance—one pivot at a time!

“A pivot is a change in strategy, not vision.”
 ERIC RIES