Recently, I’ve been reflecting on the past couple of months, and the resounding theme that comes to mind is the power of pivoting. No one expected 2020 year to turn out the way it did. Living through a pandemic has brought forth many questions and uncertainties. Our world has completely turned upside down leading to disruptions in areas of finance, health, and overall human connection. Despite all these disruptions, the power of pivoting has become the measuring stick of resilience during these times.
Pivoting can be the result of any life change or disruptive event. It may start from a gnawing feeling that it’s time to change, or from an inspired and empowered decision to move in a new direction. Regardless of the case, the results typically involve creative and innovative strategies. Some examples of pivoting during these uncertain times include the following:
Hand sanitizer: Purell and its competitors were unable to keep up with demand, so several companies stepped up to the challenge and began procuring hand sanitizers. Some of these companies included distilleries such as Anheuser-Busch and Pernod Ricard, known historically for the production of Absolut vodka. This decision has helped many companies stay afloat during these perilous times.
Masks: Companies and DIY connoisseurs have been manufacturing and donating masks to help avoid the spread of the virus and provide relief to medical responders and vulnerable populations. Buying and wearing masks has done more than just stop the spread of COVID-19. Many masks now include statements that lend support to social movements such as BLM. Antisocial Mind is owned and operated by Rion, a 19-year-old BLM activist. Not only does she manage her site single-handedly, but she donates up to 50% of profits to low poverty black children around America. In the same vein,100 percent of Silvia Tcherassi masks proceeds go to Every Mother Counts, a charity founded by Christy Turlington, that advocates for safe, dependable maternity care for expectant mothers in underserved populations around the world.
Careers: Many who have lost jobs have picked up new skills to start pursuing completely new careers.
Shopping: Many companies such as Giant Food stores, Target, and Pottery Barn have highlighted the many contactless ways to shop. These services help our most vulnerable populations and those who are working tirelessly without much time to shop.
Technology: Companies have run major discounted deals to promote technology accessibility. More than ever before, there’s such a high dependency on technology to stay digitally connected.
All of the above examples are empowering depictions of the power of pivoting. Pivoting begins with accepting the situation, then finding the purpose of the situation. Once the purpose is realized, pivoting allows for reflection, growth, and effective change. Taking this time to reflect on what energizes and excites you, may lead to your pivot moment. In life, we will continue to face disruptions; however, how we respond will determine how we pivot. Your next pivot may be your next breakthrough. I hope that as a result of COVID-19, we will become people that are more innovative, kinder, and more purposeful.
Stay safe and take care!