Deciding to Persevere or Pivot: Finding Your Path

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“I didn’t come this far to only come this far,” proclaims a rectangular light blue and white sign my husband hung in the kitchen. It has been catching my eye lately.

My husband enjoys picking up items at thrift shops. Browsing helps him relax. The hit to our budget is minimal. And he uses the items to make little “scenes” around his massage room – he is a massage therapist. Part of the ambience of the experience he offers comes to life through the decor – whether a client notices a Captain America figure holding hands with a stuffed bear or a variety of alphabet letters made out of owls, for instance. His clients tune into the creation that speaks to them in the moment.

Getting back to the sign, we all feel defeated and worn out sometimes. A goal may seem unattainable. Success may feel out of reach. We think about giving up. But we also think of all those encouraging phrases, “it’s always darkest before the dawn,” or “believe in yourself.” Should we tough it out?

Likewise, there are plenty of phrases advocating moving on from something. “The writing is on the wall,” or “if it’s not working, change your strategy,” are just two.

How do we know when to keep going and when to change course?

How do you approach the decision? Is it time to hang up the towel or is the perfect moment, your success, right around the corner? Should you persevere or look for something new?

I suggest you look to your “inner sanctum” for advice. What does that mean? Your inner sanctum is the people you go to most often because the relationship and trust is high. If you are like most people, each of those individuals bring different kinds of perspectives to you. As you think about the decision you are making, determine which person is the best to share in your current dilemma.

An illustrated diagram showing a central figure labeled 'You' surrounded by five supportive roles: 'Mom', 'Cheerleader', 'Strategist', 'Realist', and 'Mentor', each represented by distinct characters and colorful circles.
  • The Mom: This could be your actual mom or someone who understands your gifts and reminds you where your talents lie.
  • The Cheerleader: Rah! Rah! You got this! This member of your circle is not concerned about anything except making sure you know that you can accomplish everything!
  • The Realist: Everyone needs a logical person in their circle who will tell you the truth. They will evaluate the impact of your continuing on the course you chose and will draw a picture for you illuminating the facts and figures.
  • The Strategist: This person brings you the gifts of brainstorming, problem-solving, and developing multiples approaches to your situation. Maybe your strategy is the thing that needs to change, not your goal.
  • The Mentor: Who understands exactly the challenge you face? A person who has walked in your shoes. If you do not have a mentor, find one.

Finally, do NOT forget YOU! Ultimately, it is your decision. What does your gut tell you? And remember, it is just as valid to leave one goal behind as it is to keep moving forward. Take the thoughts and advice from your inner sanctum. Then sit back down with yourself, and make your decision. And if you need a coach to help you, feel free to reach out to me, The Mindful Business Coach.


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Published by Mary Balistreri

Mary Balistreri offers a variety of coaching and professional development services to individuals and organizations focused on harnessing strengths to develop more business. Mary’s approach is goal driven, focusing on measurable results and developing actionable plans to move past obstacles that hold individuals, teams, and organizations back from executing on the plan. Mary offers expertise in business development, team building, and leadership development coupled with strategies to improve conversational and emotional intelligence to support clients moving toward their goals and aspirations.

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