2020 was the year of the pivot. The world that we had all known had ended. It was time to adapt to a new world.
We launched new businesses. Created new projects. Developed new products.
And now…
The world that we pivoted in has ended, and we are, umm, here, I guess.
We talk about returning to normal, but you can never return. Just because the world is reopening and quarantines are ending does not mean that things are going back to the way they were before.
This is a good thing.
The way things were before was a jobless recovery with stagnant wages.
The way things were before was hidden but pervasive racism throughout our society and economy.
The way things were before was most Americans drowning in debt and losing hope.
In this new new world, we have seen that working remotely can be quite efficient and effective. Low wage workers have discovered better ways to make a living through new skills, gig works, or simply by having enough time to explore their options.
We have also discovered that using technology to replace in person connection is not all it’s cracked up to be. The wave of the future that is low cost virtual conferences has broken over the rocks of reality.
As we post-pivot pivot, what kind of world are we coming into?
We are coming into a world where people are eager to get back in person. Americans are expected to spend four and a half years of travel budget in the next nine months. People want to go to concerts and parties and events.
Far from what the pundits were saying, people are showing no fear of shaking hands and mingling. I was at a networking event this week, and it was just like the old days. It’s amazing what a little vaccine can do.
What does all this mean for you and your business or whatever you pivoted to in the last year? Who knows?
The important thing is recognizing that things are changing, and in change there is always opportunity. Be alert to the opportunities. Pay attention and be ready to act.
If you’re a business owner, keep an eye out for new markets and products to get into.
If you’re a worker, recognize that the labor market is very tight and you are highly in demand. Don’t be afraid to leave a job that doesn’t give you what you need for a better one.
What are you experiencing in the post-pivot pivot? What do you see on the horizon? I’d love to hear your perspectives in the comments!