Name something you can do in basketball that you can also do in business. 

I’ll go first. Pivot.

With sweat beading down my face, forearms, and hands, I watched two defenders approach me for a corner trap. Since I had already picked up my dribble, I wouldn’t be able to get out of this one easily. With the defenders draped over me with their hands high and active, I needed to get rid of the ball. Even with four active hands swatting at the ball, I was able to use my right foot to pivot through the defense. Once my vision was clearer, I found an open teammate underneath the basket for a crucial, go-ahead layup.

Some of your favorite brands began as something completely different than what they are today. Examples that come to mind are:

Moral of the story : How you start the game isn’t necessarily how you have to finish it. Whatever pivot improves your chances of winning should be the primary focus. Even if that pivot happens two or three times. Don’t be afraid to break the mold.

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That go-ahead layup in the intro? It wasn't just about skill under pressure. It was about agility – the ability to pivot effectively when the initial path was blocked.

However, this extremely effective move isn't just for athletes. It's a critical skill in business and life. It’s about changing direction strategically, not just reacting frantically.

Let's break down the anatomy of a successful pivot, using this week’s three keys.

On the court, I saw the trap coming. My awareness triggered the need to act. Elite players constantly scan the floor, anticipating threats and opportunities.

In your professional life, this is situational awareness. Are you actively scanning your environment? Are you reading the "defense"—market shifts, client feedback, internal roadblocks? Or are you caught off guard, reacting too late?

True agility starts with seeing the need clearly. You need data points, feedback loops. How can you develop your "court vision" off the court? Glad you asked.

Step one is to get in the habit of asking yourself two questions. Is our current path optimal? What signals suggest a change is needed?

Recognizing the moment is the crucial first step. Without clear vision, any pivot is just guessing.

Key 2: The Decision (Committing to the Change)

Seeing the trap wasn't enough. I had to decide to pivot, instantly.

Hesitation on the court leads to turnovers. Hesitation in business leads to missed opportunities.

Leaders often face inertia or fear of change. Pivoting requires decisive commitment. Analysis paralysis can kill agility. You need to weigh options, then act.

This doesn't mean being reckless. It means making timely choices based on your vision.

How can you foster decisiveness? Practice making smaller pivots regularly.

Build confidence in your ability to adjust. Empower your team to make decisions too. Commitment transforms awareness into action. It’s the engine that drives the pivot forward.

Key 3: The Execution (Pivoting with Control)

My pivot wasn't wild; it was controlled. Protect the ball, maintain balance, find the target.

A sloppy pivot leads to losing possession. A sloppy business pivot leads to chaos. Executing change well is crucial. It requires skill, communication, and focus.

How do you implement the change smoothly? Start with clear communication – the 'why'.

Why are we pivoting? What’s the new goal? Get your team aligned and informed.

Manage resources effectively through the shift. Maintain momentum and team morale. Just like I kept my eyes up to find my teammate, keep your focus on the ultimate objective.

Measure the impact of your pivot. Learn and refine your execution for next time. Controlled execution turns a decision into a successful outcome.

Post-Game Recap : Pivoting is a Skill

Agility isn’t just about speed. It's about awareness, decision, and control. Mastering the pivot—on or off the court— is about practice and strategic thinking. It allows you to navigate challenges and seize opportunities effectively.

So, sharpen your vision, trust your decisions, and execute your pivots with purpose. And just like any skill or muscle, repetition is key.

That's how you gain your edge.

Hope these insights on the "Pivot" help you navigate your own court with more agility!

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(Whether it's recognizing the need, making the decision, or executing the change!)

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