How to Recognize: When to Pivot and When to Push!

Ever had one of those days where no matter what you do, you feel like you're running in circles? Yeah, me too, I recognize it.

Axel Dekker
October 23, 2024

You ever hit a wall with something you're working on?

One minute you're cruising, ideas flowing, tasks getting checked off—and then, out of nowhere, you’re stuck.

Like really stuck. The kind where no amount of effort seems to push things forward.

I’ve been there more times than I can count.

It’s tricky because our instinct is to keep pushing. After all, we’re entrepreneurs, right?

We’re supposed to power through. But sometimes, the best way forward is to stop and reassess.

And that’s exactly what I want to talk about this week: recognizing when to pivot, pause, or even let go.

Here’s what I’ve learned:

When progress feels hard, it’s not always about needing more time or resources.

Sometimes it’s about direction. If you're fighting too much against the current, take a step back and ask yourself: Why is this so hard?

Is it the wrong strategy? Or maybe it's not the right time?

Identifying the source of friction is key to finding your next move.

I know this feels counterintuitive, especially when you're under pressure, but stepping away can bring the clarity you need.

I’ve found that taking a few hours—or even a day—off to focus on something else helps me return with fresh eyes.

It’s like hitting a mental reset button.

There’s no shame in deciding that something isn’t working the way you hoped.

If you keep forcing a strategy that’s not producing results, you could be wasting time you could spend on a better approach.

It’s tough, but sometimes you have to ask: Is this really worth my energy?

Or is it time to try a different angle?

Every time I’ve felt stuck, there was a reason.

I didn’t always understand it in the moment, but looking back, I realize my gut was telling me something important.

Trust that feeling. If something feels off, it probably is.

Don’t ignore your intuition just because you feel obligated to finish something you’ve started.

It’s not easy to admit when we’re stuck, but it’s an important part of the journey.

Getting unstuck isn’t about doing more—it’s about doing better.

If you’re in that place right now, pause, reflect, and give yourself permission to pivot if that’s what’s needed.

Let’s keep pushing (the right way)!