I’ve had to start over more times than I can count.
From football to business to mountaineering,
I’ve learned that the ability to pivot isn’t just a survival skill—
it’s the key to long-term success.
When my NFL career ended, I had no backup plan.
My identity was wrapped up in being an athlete. Suddenly, that chapter was over.
I pivoted to business—building a company, pouring in time, effort, and energy.
It was thriving… until it wasn’t.
A few wrong moves, some bad luck, and everything collapsed. I lost it all.
Rock bottom. Again.
I could have stayed stuck, mourning the losses. Instead, I adapted.
I took everything I had learned from sports and business
and applied it to a new challenge: mountaineering.
And that’s how I found my next summit—literally.
Here’s what I learned about mastering the art of the pivot
when life forces you to change direction.
10 Steps to Mastering the Art of the Pivot
1. Accept That the Old Plan No Longer Works
Holding onto a broken strategy only delays success. Let it go.
2. Control What You Can, Let Go of What You Can’t
Pivoting isn’t about starting over—
it’s about redirecting your energy to what’s still within your power.
3. Redefine Your “Summit”
The goal you set years ago might not be the right one anymore. What excites you now?
4. Use Past Lessons as a Springboard, Not a Crutch
Every skill, win, and loss in your past prepares you for what’s next—use them.
5. Stay Curious—Learn from Those Who’ve Pivoted Before
The most successful people have reinvented themselves multiple times. Study their blueprints.
6. Build a New Playbook—One Step at a Time
Pivoting can feel overwhelming. Break it down into daily actions so momentum stays alive.
7. Take Bold Action (Even Before You’re Ready)
Confidence doesn’t come before action—
it comes from taking the leap and figuring it out as you go.
8. Surround Yourself with Adaptable, Forward-Thinkers
Stuck people will keep you stuck. Find the ones who push you forward.
9. Turn Setbacks into Altitude Training
Failure is data, not defeat. Use it to climb higher.
10. Keep Moving—Your Next Big Opportunity Is Already Out There
The moment you stop adapting, you stop growing. The next win is waiting for you—go find it.
The WYE Challenge
Identify One Area You Need to Pivot In–
Career, business, fitness, mindset—
where do you feel stuck or in need of change?
The Next Step Toolkit
Movie Recommendation: Moneyball
A masterclass in reinventing strategy when the old way stops working.
Your ability to pivot determines your ability to succeed.
So when the old path closes, don’t fight it.
Adapt. Redirect. Keep climbing.
See you at the next summit.
Best,
Mark
Add a Comment