Knowing When to Pivot

A quitter never wins—and a winner never quits. – Napoleon Hill

Happy new week dear friend, last week I shared with you the power of persistence and trusting the process however, as I went over my goals over the week I could not help but give some time to why pivoting is sometimes the best alternative route to success.

As we set on towards our journey and own definition of success, we often set out with a clear vision and a determined mindset. We map out our goals, make plans, and begin the work. But what happens when, despite our best efforts, the path we’re on doesn’t seem to be leading where we want to go?

I have learnt this lesson the hard way a few times now. Recently, I have had to change course on a project I have had for a good couple of years now. I had invested countless hours into this project that I was passionate about, believing wholeheartedly that if others have made it so can I.

But as time went on, the results just weren’t aligning with my expectations and then I found myself at a crossroads: should I keep pushing forward on the same path, or was it time to pivot?

It wasn’t an easy decision bearing in mind that I have also invested a great deal of financial resources in. After all, like many of us, I had internalized the idea that persistence and hard work would eventually pay off. But the more I held on to this belief, the more I felt stuck and unmotivated.

I realized that persistence is not just about continuing on the same course—it’s also about knowing when to change direction. I decided to pivot, shifting my focus and resources to a new approach that better aligned with the changing circumstances and my evolving understanding of the market. It wasn’t easy to let go of the initial vision, but the results were undeniable.

What started as a difficult decision eventually has turned into one of the best moves I could have made. The new path has not only brought me on a more aligned path that I was seeking but also taught me a valuable lesson: flexibility is just as important as persistence.

This brings me to think about Thomas Edison, who persistently tested thousands of materials before finding the right filament for the lightbulb. Now that I think of it each failed attempt wasn’t a setback but rather a pivot in his process. He didn’t quit—he just adjusted his approach until he found success.

So as we start a new week, I want to encourage you to take a good and honest look at your journey and recognise where you might face similar moments where the road ahead isn’t as clear as you’d hoped.

Now ask yourself: Is this the time to dig deeper, or is it time to pivot? Trust your instincts and don’t be afraid to change course. Pivoting isn’t about giving up; it’s about staying true to your ultimate goal while being flexible in achieving it.

Many of my goals haven’t been achieved following the path l laid out initially. Sometimes, it’s the unexpected turns and the willingness to adapt that lead us to where we truly want to be.

So, remember if you are feeling stuck or feeling like your current approach isn’t working, a pivot might be exactly what you need to get back on your path again. I’d love to hear your experience with pivoting so kindly do share this in the comments.

Love & light

Sheila Daisy.