Three Considerations for a Fashion Pivot
The greatest pivot may lead you to your wildest fashion career dreams.
Photo by: Jennifer Stalvey
Pivoting within your fashion career journey should be encouraged. Merriam-Webster defines the word pivot well–to adapt or improve by adjusting or modifying something. I remember the end of my fashion design journey and how directionless I felt because I knew it was time to pivot. I knew I wanted to explore other roles within fashion, but I did not know which one I wanted to pursue. It was hard to release it because, at that point, I had put so much time, energy, and effort into fashion design to the best of my abilities. I took a much-needed break–which allowed me the space I needed to think, strategize, and transition into another skillset I wanted to improve. Before you call it quits with one fashion skillset, ask yourself whether you need space to think. Sometimes, we are so laser-focused on hitting a goal we forget to stop and think about what matters to us and if we are moving in the direction that is true to who we are. Consider these three things when, you know, it is time to pivot within fashion:
Mastering the Mission Statement
Go back to the drawing board. Why are you doing what you are doing? Knowing your purpose and the role you must carry out is essential. You may or may not know your purpose. If you do not, I encourage you to ask questions like, what has God called me to do on this earth? It may take some time to find the answer, but trust me, God will give you the answer. Your mission statement is vital because it will help you stay grounded when facing challenges or remind you why you should keep going.
Honoring the Introspection
Do you know why you do what you do? Do you know why you are in the fashion industry? The reason should be much more profound than titles and nice clothes. Neither should it be for a selfish reason. Your purpose involves others and the impact you will make on them. Knowing who you are, your strengths and weaknesses, and what you are good or not good at is critical to set boundaries. Having clarity on your mission statement and creating boundaries around that will help you decide and be confident about the opportunities to pursue or not. Every opportunity needs to be in alignment with your mission.
Revitalizing the Overlooked Skill
What is a part of who you are that you often overlook? I asked this question because we often forget what comes naturally to us. That thing should come easy to you. I am not saying there will not be times you feel the growing pains, but it should be natural to you. If you need help identifying that skill:
Ask people who know you best and want to see you thrive.
Ask people what you are excellent at–you will be surprised by the answers you receive.
Ask acquaintances who support you from afar.
Receive constructive feedback, if you may.
You may find that you are exceptionally good at something you never thought you were. Tap into it, develop it and serve it.
Your mind and heart must be ready to commit to the journey. Changing directions is not always easy, but it is well worth it. Pivot and move forth like the true fashion leader you are. Pivoting should not be looked down on. Learn to adapt or improve your skills, processes, or strategies when necessary. You can gain much clarity and motivation when you are on no one's timeline but your own. That is what makes your journey unique. The people you influence need you to not give up during the journey. Some people need what only you have–waiting for you to serve your gift. The greatest pivot may lead you to your wildest fashion career dreams.
