The Power of the Pivot: Why I Reframed My Messaging
In business, as in life, adaptability is everything. The ability to pivot—not just reactively, but strategically—determines how well we navigate challenges and seize opportunities. Recently, I made a key shift in my own branding and communication: instead of positioning myself as a mental performance coach, I now emphasize my expertise in sports and performance psychology.
Why the Shift?
I’ve always believed in the power of clarity. While mental performance coaching is an incredibly valuable field, I found that it required constant explanation. People often asked, “So… what exactly do you do?” or confused it with life coaching, therapy, or something entirely unrelated. That’s a sign of a branding gap—when the message doesn’t immediately resonate with the audience.
By shifting my wording to sports and performance psychology, I provide immediate context. People can instantly grasp that my work is rooted in psychology, backed by education, and tied to optimizing human performance—whether in sports, business, or high-pressure environments. It also aligns more directly with my academic background, including my master’s in sports and performance psychology and my current pursuit of a doctorate in psychology with a specialization in trauma.
Staying Nimble in Business and Life
This shift wasn’t just about branding; it was a reminder of the importance of flexibility. In business, we often become attached to labels, processes, or strategies because they worked once. But if something isn’t landing the way we intended, adaptation is key.
The same principle applies to life. We make plans, set goals, and structure our paths based on what we think will work. But as we gain experience, new information, and feedback, we have to be willing to reassess. Sometimes, that means a small tweak in approach; other times, it’s a major pivot. Either way, being rigid serves no one.
Lessons from Performance Psychology
One of the core principles of performance psychology is adjusting under pressure. The best athletes, leaders, and performers aren’t just skilled—they’re adaptable. When circumstances shift, they don’t panic or cling to old strategies. Instead, they assess, adjust, and move forward with purpose.
That’s exactly what I applied to my own messaging. The data was clear: my audience needed a more direct way to understand my expertise. So I made the change. And if I need to refine further down the road? I will. Because growth isn’t about staying the same—it’s about evolving with intention.
The Takeaway: Be Willing to Pivot
Whether you’re running a business, managing a team, or working on personal growth, the ability to pivot is a competitive advantage. If something isn’t working—whether it’s a title, a process, or a mindset—don’t be afraid to change it. Clarity and alignment matter more than sticking to what’s comfortable.
