Pursue Your Pivot: Get (Re)Inspired

A word …

Y’all, I received my copy of the University of Florida (shout out to my “DEI” Gators) Alumni magazine yesterday, looked at the Spring 2024 edition date, and was reminded that I graduated college 20 years ago. 

Whet?! 

At that moment, I thought, “What have I done with my life since then?!” 

I immediately caught myself and changed that thought because I had done a lot. I have climbed the Corporate ladder, slid back down that heaux, kicked it to the side, started a business, formed amazing relationships, and lived a great life that has taken me to several countries, over half of the states, and four of seven continents. 

Not too shabby, and it’s only the beginning.

I say that to say that, if you think about it, you’ve had numerous moments of inspiration, happiness, excitement, and adventure. So, let’s have some more!

That’s what I want to talk about in this edition.

After the feedback I received for last week's newsletter, I hope this edition finds you in a moment of peace amidst the chaos and burnout because, let's be real, the grind has been relentless. Folks are over it! Same sis, same!

BUT I don't want you to live this way. We have decades ahead of us, and I don't want them to be overshadowed by spinning on a hamster wheel, chasing deadlines, and juggling life's endless demands. 

It's time to hit pause, tune in to your own frequency, and vibrate higher! Yes, I believe in that "woo woo" stuff, lol. 

So, today, I'm talking about rekindling that inner fire and pivoting from mundane to extraordinary, from overwhelmed to manageable, and from discouraged to inspired. 

Let's walk through this together. Some of these may sound like a broken record, but that's because it's all related. Plus, research shows that it takes hearing something an average of seven times before it sticks, and we need this to stick because inspiration is on the other side of the work. And inspiration leads to creativity, which leads to action, which leads to dreams fulfilled.

First things first, we've acknowledged the burnout. It's not just you feeling this; it's a collective sigh from Black women everywhere, tired of the toxic, energy-draining cycles of our professional lives. But here's the thing: I truly believe that within that exhaustion lies a seed of incredible potential. It's time to water it with intention and watch it bloom.

We also have to be willing to embrace the uncomfortable. Change is uncomfortable, scary even, but it's also thrilling. Remember the last time you tried something new and how alive you felt? That's your soul saying, "More of this, please!" Start small. Switch up your routine, take a different route to work, or even rearrange your workspace.  

Pivoting starts in the mind, so it's time for a mindset makeover. That's easier said than done, but we must shift from being stuck to being ready for new adventures. You can do this by surrounding yourself with positive affirmations, podcasts, and books that inspire growth and resilience. Let me know if you want a list of my favorite podcasts. 

Please know that you're not alone in this journey. So, it's time to network with intention and connect with women who've turned their pivot dreams into reality. Join online forums, attend workshops and network within communities that align with your aspirations. These connections can offer invaluable insights and support. This point is my main focus in the coming months. 

Learning new things is a great way to get reinspired. I discussed this in a previous edition, but if you want to pivot, it's time to upskill. Identify the skills you need for your dream role or business and start acquiring them. The access to resources is endless: online courses, night classes, workshops, etc. 

In pursuing our dreams, we often put ourselves last as we run the rat race. Well, it's time to flip the script and accept that self-care isn't selfish. Prioritizing self-care as a non-negotiable should be a part of your routine. Whether it's a morning meditation, an evening walk, or simply saying no to extra commitments, make space for activities that rejuvenate your spirit. Working out is my self-care. What's yours?

Big or small, every achievement counts and is a step in the right direction. So, celebrate every win along the way. This journey is as much about the destination as it is about the growth and experiences you gather along the way. Celebrations are fun. We like celebrations! This is a great way to break the monotony, get dressed up, and have a great dinner or gather a group of friends for deep belly laughs.

Money matters, especially when you're planning a significant change, and don't let anyone tell you otherwise. That doesn't mean you have to hit the lottery but know your number: the amount you need to sustain as your pivot taxis the runway before takeoff. Start by assessing your financial health and creating a budget supporting your pivot goals. 

No one achieves greatness alone. So, find a mentor who resonates with your aspirations and can guide you through your pivot. Their experience, wisdom, and encouragement can be the spark you need to reignite your excitement for your professional endeavors. They can likely tell you how they once had to do the same.

Lastly, a great way to get reinspired is to dream and plan. For example, vision boards are great visual affirmations of your goals. Create one that reflects your dream life and plan the steps to get there. Break the plan down into manageable, actionable tasks and check them off, one by one. I love a good list to the point where I will add something to check it off. Also, if you aren't interested in breaking out the paper, scissors, and glue, you can do what I do now and make a collage using an app or website like Canva.

Parting Thoughts …

Find inspiration where you can, knowing that it may not come from someone else. 

Also, inspiration, like motivation, can be fleeting so be sure to know your “why,” as that will have to be your north star when times, things, and people are uninspiring.