My Journey to Embrace the Pivot
Getting ready to take a leap off a mountain
The Awakening: My Moment of Realization
Well, hello! Come on in :) Welcome to my third act - where ambition meets profound transformation. Are you ready for yours?
I had the pleasure of being a guest on Dorien Morin's Strategy Talks podcast, where our discussion revolved around the exciting topic of "Rocking Your Career Pivot." We share more than advice. This podcast is really a reflection of my personal journey and a call to action for women at any stage of life who yearn for something more fulfilling than their current professional situation. At the age of 55, a pivotal moment made me question, "Is this all there is?" This wasn't about dissatisfaction; it was about a deep yearning for evolution.
"When I turned 55 last year, I was like, there definitely has to be more to this"
Like many women, I found myself at a crossroads, facing the truth many of us encounter: the quest for a career that not only challenges but fulfills us on a deeper level.
Crafting My Pivot Blueprint
The Power of Mindset:
My journey began with a mindset shift, recognizing my experiences and wisdom as formidable assets.
This shift was about prioritizing myself and tapping into my intuition to discover what truly resonates with me.
Clarifying My Purpose:
Identifying my 'why' was foundational. What drove my desire for change?
"You have to tap into that deeper knowing, intuition, calling, whatever you want to call it."
This purpose or “Why” acted as the guiding star for my pivot, keeping me aligned and motivated.
Designing My Roadmap:
My journey to change, documented in my book, 101 Ways to Rock Change: The Successful Pivot from Executive to Entrepreneur"
It illustrates that a personalized plan based on individual goals, skills, and passions is essential. There wasn't a roadmap...And so I started putting one together myself highlighting the importance of a tailored plan.
Actionable Strategies for a Graceful Transition
Commit to Lifelong Learning:
I recommend immersing yourself, as I did, in resources relevant to your new direction. "I looked for books, I looked for roadmaps, I looked for podcasts and experts" who gave me both necessary knowledge and inspiration. Linkedin Learning is a great place to start (and feel free to check out some of my courses!)
Cultivate a Supportive Network:
Community played a pivotal role. Networks, both existing and new, provided me with support, accountability, and unforeseen opportunities. Not only that - there were people I needed to let go of.
"You really do have to go inside and let your intuition guide you - you have to make that decision to let go of what no longer serves you."
Prioritize Health and Wellness:
My well-being became paramount. Establishing routines that nurtured my body and spirit laid a solid foundation for my career pivot. "You need to find ways to tap into that deeper knowing," which included taking care of my physical health.
Overcoming Obstacles on the Pivot Path
Challenging Ageism:
My journey shines a light on overcoming societal biases. Viewing my age as an asset was key.
"We start to become more invisible...And this very youth-focused world, people stop listening to us as much."
We all need to face this challenge and find the resolve needed to overcome it.
Strategic Financial Planning:
Understanding the financial implications is crucial when you make a big pivot. You have to make a clear, actionable financial plan.
Building Emotional Resilience:
The emotional rollercoaster is real. Seeking guidance from mentors who've navigated similar paths provided both support and practical advice.
The Road Ahead: Thriving Post-Pivot
My pivot wasn't just about changing careers; it was about aligning my professional life with my inner values and aspirations. "It's super, super exciting and please enter into it with the right mindset," like:
Embracing the Liminal Space:
The transitional phase, or liminal zone, is a space that is ript for growth.
"It's in that liminal space where who you really were meant to be is starting to formulate and find itself.”
It’s important to embrace uncertainty.
Letting Go to Grow:
Part of my process involved letting go of past achievements that no longer served me.
"Do what only you can do and then find other people to do the rest."
Delegate what you can and focus on your strengths.
The Phoenix Rises:
Like a phoenix, I learned the importance of renewal.
"You are going to have to burn some stuff away and you're going to have to burn some of yourself away as well.”
Acknowledge that change is tough and congratulate yourself on taking the tough yet rewarding path of transformation.
My journey underscores the power of embracing change, no matter where you are in life. To women contemplating their next chapter:
Your words and actions can change not only your world but the world at large.
It's your time to pivot, to shine, and to step into the life you've always imagined for yourself.
You can listen here: https://www.moreinmedia.com/strategytalks/episode/3d59f8ec/rocking-a-career-pivot
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