Episode 76: Permission To Pivot
Today we are going to dig deep into some personal reflections and tough questions. I've been pondering these thoughts for quite some time, especially in the last six months as my business has taken some big turns. From creating greeting cards to coaching calls, building a community, and of course, making this podcast – it got me thinking, where am I heading? What do I really want? This episode is all about asking these questions and walking you through some reflections on your own journey.
Letting Go
First let’s talk about goals. We all have them, right? Whether it's a money target, business metrics, or a skill you want to master. But here's the big question – are those goals still what you want? I share a couple of examples from my own creative business journey, like when I used to be focused on creating pottery. At first it was my dream, but as it became more of a production line, I had to ask myself if it was still making me happy. I eventually had to let go and sell all my equipment. It was tough, but it is necessary to let go of things and feel permission to pivot when things aren't bringing us joy anymore.
Achievement Culture
Now, let's dive into a concept called achievement culture. It's this idea that our goals might be more about looking successful than actually being happy. I share stories about wanting a pottery studio and a retail shop, thinking it would make me look like a "real business." But I had to question if these desires were based on achievement or if they truly aligned with what I wanted. Jennifer Wallace, has a great book called "Never Enough,” where she talks about the deep need we all have to feel seen and valued by others. But the catch is, sometimes we tie our worth too closely to achievements. It's like saying, "I'll only matter if I achieve this." I realized I was doing that in my own life, and it was a bit of an eye-opener.
Reflection Questions
It's crucial to evaluate whether there's something else you want to do to make an impact in a new way. Consider where you're putting your energy and what your end vision looks like. Pivoting can be both exciting and terrifying, as I experienced when I let go of my dream of having a pottery studio. Letting go requires sensitivity to questions about your end vision and the impact you want to make. This episode emphasizes the importance of pivoting from goals that no longer serve you, opening doors to new possibilities. I want to clarify – it's not about quitting your creative dreams but making changes to fulfill yourself more.
So, what changes do you need to make today to point yourself in the right direction? It's all about reflection and having the courage to pivot or let go of things that aren't serving you anymore. And remember, it's okay to make changes, even if they're a bit scary. I hope this episode sparks reflection, evaluation, and the courage to make changes that will help you create the impact and the life you desire.
KEY TAKEAWAYS:
It is important to reevaluate our goals and ask ourselves if those goals are still aligned with our true desires, if they are bringing joy and fulfillment, or if they are tied to achievement and identity.
It is important to let go of goals or dreams that no longer serve a purpose or bring fulfillment, even if they were once deeply desired.
New opportunities come when pivoting and making changes.
We all have the desire to matter and be enough, however we must be careful to not tie this desire solely to achievements.
When deciding to pivot or let go of something it is important to have support and feel permission to make changes even if they are scary or challenging.
Get your copy of Jennifer’s book Never Enough: When Achievement Culture Becomes Toxic—And What We Can Do About It https://www.jenniferbwallace.com/
*Episode with Jennifer Wallace on “The Cathy Heller Show”
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