The Art of the Pivot: How Athletes Can Thrive in Uncertain Times

Life’s a bit like sports—just when you think you’ve got it all figured out, something unexpected happens. Maybe it’s an injury, a canceled season, or even something crazy like a global pandemic (hello, 2020). Or as it was in my case – hello, cancer. But here’s the good news: as an athlete, you’ve already got the skills to handle uncertainty like a pro. It’s all about mastering the art of the pivot.

1. Change the Play, Not the Goal (Because Winning Still Matters)

In sports, if the original game plan isn’t working, you don’t just give up—you change the play. The same goes for life. When things get unpredictable, don’t throw away your goals. Instead, find a new way to reach them. Maybe your path to success has a few more twists and turns than you expected, but that doesn’t mean you won’t get there. Stay focused on your end goal, but be ready to adjust how you get there. I always see my goals as the end destination in my GPS. If there is a traffic jam (unexpected life twist) the GPS will find a way to still bring me to my goal aka end destination.

2. Stay Calm Under Pressure (Because Freaking Out Doesn’t Help)

Remember those high-pressure moments in a game, like when the clock is ticking down and everything’s on the line? Freaking out isn’t an option—you stay calm, focused, and do what you need to do. Uncertain times in life are the same. When things go off-script, take a deep breath, stay cool, and figure out your next move. Keeping your head in the game is what makes all the difference.

3. Be Ready to Try Something New (Because You’re More Than Just One Thing)

Sometimes, uncertainty forces you to step out of your comfort zone and try something new. Maybe you’ve always been the star player in one sport, but now’s the time to explore something different. Or maybe it’s time to pick up a new skill or hobby you’ve never thought about before. Being able to pivot means being open to new opportunities, and who knows? You might discover a whole new passion that you’re amazing at.

4. Lean on Your Team (Because You’re Not in This Alone)

In sports, you’ve got teammates and coaches to rely on, and in life, it’s no different. When times get tough, don’t hesitate to lean on your support system—friends, family, coaches, mentors. They’re there to help you navigate the uncertain times and remind you that you’re not alone in this. Sometimes, the best way to pivot is with a little help from your team.

Uncertain times can be tough, but you’ve already got what it takes to not just survive, but thrive. Just like in sports, mastering the art of the pivot means being flexible, staying calm, and being open to whatever comes your way. Remember, life’s full of surprises—but with the right mindset, you can handle anything it throws at you.