There’s a lot of conversation and noise going on right now about pivoting...changing course because we are forced to do something different, mainly a different job or perhaps a different kind of work altogether. We are definitely immersed in interesting times.
Some see this challenge of a forced pivot as a problem, perhaps even a dire emergency if faced with little or no income and an uncertain future. It can be quite scary for sure. But we could also see it as an opportunity...a chance to calmly reflect on what we’re capable of and what value we might bring to the table, albeit in many ways a new table.
So, here’s a simple exercise which will hopefully help put the fear aside (where it belongs because it’s not useful at all in solving this sort of problem) and bring clarity to your value opportunity.
First, create a list of problems you can solve for someone. Don’t hold back, nothing is too dumb, trite or obvious. There are no bad ideas (that’s a made-up fear in our heads). The list should be quite lengthy for most adults (and even kids). And yes, yard work makes almost everyone’s list.
Second, determine which of these ideas someone (perhaps only one person) might pay you to do.
Third, choose five or ten of the paying gigs which interest you and align with your purpose and core values. This is important. So, write out next to those how the idea supports your purpose and core values. Then, build a mini business model for each one. This includes the minimum audience you need to make it viable, how to reach and earn enrollment from this audience, the resources (cash, equipment, etc.) you need and any additional help or skill development you might need to get this idea off the ground. This shouldn’t take long, perhaps ten minutes for each one. You’re not making this for a bank presentation...just for you at this point.
Now, choose one or two which seem the most doable and flush them out further. A this point, consider sharing your work with a coach or an advisor (not friends or family) so they can ask the questions you haven’t thought of yet.
So, with a few hours of invested time, you’re much better prepared to decide whether to pivot (or not). And if you choose to change course, it’s with intent, based on purpose and has a plan...instead of being controlled by fear. At a minimum, you’ll have a list of all of the problems you can solve. So, why not start one or two regardless? The key is to move forward by choosing to start. Choose wisely.