Thinking About Pivoting? Here are Things to Consider
Hi friends!
Today I wanted to talk about PIVOTING.
I know so many in this community are poised to make a pivot. I also know that it can be really intimidating- so I wanted to talk through it. At this point in my career I’ve been a: personal trainer, nursing assistant, nurse, and now I’m a full time entrepreneur.
I graduated with an exercise science degree and then went back to school for a nursing degree. When you spend money on your education and put a lot of hard work into getting the job that you want- it can be really hard to pivot away from them. Am I right?
I think life is a lot more fluid than many of us give it credit for. A lot of us might run into a time where a pivot is necessary.
Let’s break down some of the common objections and how I navigated my way through them.
But, I wasted ALL this time and money getting a degree!
I spent about $42,000 and an intense year of my life getting my nursing degree.
I landed my dream job at the University of Wisconsin Hospital and became an oncology nurse. About 3 years into my career my sister and I started Expecting and Empowered. Our little side hustle started screaming for more attention. At this point, I was 6 years into my nursing career and it was becoming harder and harder to balance being a nurse and being a business owner.
Although I had spent money and time getting to where I was in my nursing degree- I reminded myself to also SEE everything that it had given me. I looked at all the skills that I had gained over those 6 years and how well they translated into other parts of my life. I gained the most valuable life lessons available to humans- to see other humans at the end of their lives. I got a peek into what people cared about, what they would’ve done, and even what they would go back and tell their younger selves. My time helping other people was WORTH it when I looked at it from the right lens.
Whatever you did- know that you gained experience there. It was *NOT* a waste of time. It was a step on your journey
What will people think of me?
Truth be told- your coworkers, family members, friends...they might let you know.
Here is another truth: they don’t have to understand. Sure, it would be nice if you felt warm encouragement from everyone you told about your pivot...but that won’t be the reality. And guess what? It doesn’t need to be.
YOU have to feel the confidence and clarity about what you’re doing. You do not have to convince the world to have the same confidence and clarity in it.
Coming up with a firm, go-to response when someone questions you can be a really smart thing to do. Something like, “Yes. I’m leaving to pursue this business. We’re helping women every single day and for me- having my work feel purposeful is really important. I’m excited to take it on full time.”
I’m scared.
I’d never try to convince you not to be. BUT, I also would encourage you to not let it stop you. Trying something new or going ALL in on your own thing can certainly be nerve wracking.
While making my pivots- I’ve always made sure that I’d be able to pay my bills and then some.. I never wanted to put myself or my family in a questionable financial position. Whatever you value- make sure that your pivot doesn’t make you sacrifice it.
If you cover your basis- then go confidently in the direction of your dreams. Scared or not- you can do it.
Here at Pursuing HER Purpose- we are cheering for you every single step of the way. Whether you’re ready to make the leap tomorrow or you’re still getting your ducks in a row to do it- we can’t wait to see what your future holds.
Let me know if something else is coming up for you when you think about pivoting- I’d love to discuss it.
On Purpose,
