What could you do differently?

Life doesn’t come with a playbook, but that doesn’t mean you can’t win the game.

Let’s keep it real: life has a wicked sense of humor. You think you’re cruising along, checking off your goals, and suddenly—bam! A curveball flies straight at you. Whether it’s a job loss, a breakup, a health scare, or just an unexpected plot twist, it can feel like the universe is throwing shade. But here’s the truth: life’s pivots, though messy, are often the birthplace of your next great comeback.

This isn’t about sugarcoating reality with toxic positivity or pretending to be okay when you’re not. Nope. This is about resilience—getting through the storm and coming out on the other side with your head high and your edges intact. Let’s dive into how to navigate life’s curveballs like the champ you are.

The Art of the Pivot: 10 Ways to Turn Setbacks into Setups

1. Call It What It Is

Before you can pivot, you need to plant your feet. Acknowledge what’s happened without downplaying or dramatizing it. It’s okay to feel upset, but don’t let those feelings run the show.

2. Feel Your Feels, But Don’t Unpack There

Grieving a lost dream or plan is natural. Just don’t let that grief move in and redecorate your mental space. Cry it out, scream into a pillow—whatever works for you—but then shift your energy toward the next step.

3. Curiosity Over Fear

When the plan changes, ask yourself: “What if this leads somewhere better?” Curiosity can be the antidote to fear.

4. The Power of ‘Plan B’ Energy

Plan B isn’t a downgrade—it’s your secret weapon. Learn to embrace flexibility, because let’s be honest, most of us are living on Plan F by now.

5. Your People Are Your Power

Navigating life’s twists is easier when you’ve got a solid squad. Whether it’s your BFF, a therapist, or a mentor, surround yourself with people who remind you of your strength when you forget.

6. Double Down on Self-Care

Now’s the time to get serious about taking care of yourself. Think bubble baths and boundaries. Self-care isn’t selfish—it’s survival.

7. Spot the Silver Linings

Even in the darkest times, there’s usually a lesson or opportunity hiding in the chaos. Look for it.

8. Celebrate the Small Wins

Got out of bed? That’s a win. Updated your resume? Major flex. Don’t wait for the big milestones to celebrate yourself.

9. Get Comfortable Being Uncomfortable

Growth happens in discomfort. When you embrace the unknown, you’ll find strength you didn’t know you had.

10. Reconnect with Your Why

When life feels shaky, anchor yourself in your values and purpose. Why do you do what you do? What’s driving you? Clarity will guide you forward.

Pivot in Action: Real Stories, Real Wins

• From Corporate Burnout to Creative Freedom

After a sudden layoff, Bianca turned her side hustle—custom jewelry—into a full-time business. Two years later, she’s thriving, proving that losing her job was the best thing that ever happened to her.

• Redefining Family Goals

When Janelle discovered she was pregnant unexpectedly, she and her partner had to pivot their long-term plans. The result? A tighter family bond and a new appreciation for life’s surprises.

• Health Scare to Health Advocate

Marcus turned a health crisis into a mission. After recovering, he started a nonprofit dedicated to raising awareness about preventative care in his community.

Life will test you, but every challenge is a chance to rewrite your story. Pivoting isn’t about perfection; it’s about perseverance. The next time life throws a curveball, remember: you’ve got the strength, the smarts, and the squad to handle it.

Bonus Resources

• Books: Rising Strong by Brené Brown and Atomic Habits by James Clear

• Apps: Headspace for mindfulness, Canva for career pivots (resumes and portfolios)

• Podcasts: Therapy for Black Girls and How I Built This