pivot, verb: to adapt or improve by adjusting or modifying something (such as product, service or strategy)
When I started this business, I had planned to sell my designs only to needlepoint shops and not directly to consumers. When I was waitlisted for the needlepoint market in October, I knew that my initial plan was no longer going to work for me or my business. I had to pivot. I had to adapt and modify my business plan in order to meet my business and personal goals.
I will tell you that my pivot was not a popular one among many in the industry. Many kind folks reached out with the best intentions to share their experiences and perspectives in hopes that I would maintain the course and not act hastily. I appreciated their concern. However, my gut told me that a pivot was the only option for me. I was going to have to change my business model and sell directly to you, the consumer, the end user.
And candidly, I wasn’t looking forward it.
One evening I did an Instagram Live announcing the modification of my distribution and business plans. I wanted this announcement to tell my story and share my decision with my followers and now potential customers. I wanted to be truthful, and I wanted to be positive. I knew that my success going forward was dependent upon my attitude and perspective about the situation. I wasn’t going to be able to make the necessary changes and climb these new mountains set before me if I was hurt, frustrated or bitter.
In thinking about what I wanted to say and how I wanted to say it, the word “pivot” came to mind. I was a dancer growing up and still love to dance, so I have a positive association with the word. A pivot is a quick turn on a pin or shaft. A pivot is a quick change in direction. It’s not something that takes a lot of movement, motion or time. Pivot not only describes the change in direction it describe the speed in which the change takes place. It’s fast. That was it. I had to pivot.
In life we have to adapt, modify and change directions for all different reasons. Certainly there are times we need to be patient and wait. But I’m not talking about those times. I’m talking about the times when you know what you need to do. You need to pivot. You need to breakup, quit, leave or stop. There’s no laboring or lingering. No fighting or bickering, explaining or discussing. And there's really no need in wishing it were different. In these times this would be a waste of time, energy and momentum. So you pivot. Bam. Move. It is what is, move on!
Over the last few months so many of you have repeated the word “pivot” back to me in posts, comments and messages. I would never have expected that word to stick, but it has. And I’m grateful. From something disappointing and defeating has come something incredibly inspiring, positive and fun. And to my surprise, I'm really having the best time! Talk about a blessing in disguise.
I want to share with you this new canvas that I stitched a few nights ago when I was reflecting on the last few months and how things have changed. It will be available for you soon. I hope that you stitch it, and make it into a sign, paperweight, pillow or whatever you choose. I hope that it serves as a reminder to you, that when your gut tells you to pivot, you pivot. No need to dilly-dally. Trust your gut. Don’t look back. Because If I can, YOU can.
And for goodness sakes, don’t be embarrassed or ashamed to pivot. A pivot is not a failure. It’s simply a change in direction. With change comes uncertainty and challenges, but it also comes with freedom, excitement, hope and possibilities. Focus on the good, and don’t be afraid. You can do it, because you are "the master of your fate and the captain of your soul".
This pivot has been one of the best decisions I’ve ever made. And I couldn’t do it without you. I’m grateful everyday for a pivot, for you, and for what’s to come.
Lots happening around here! I can't wait to share more soon.