One of the most important keys to life and leadership is being able to pivot. Over the years, I have discovered that the best leaders are those who can adjust quickly or change rapidly. To pivot means to " the end of which something rests and turns, or upon and about which something rotates or oscillates." Every leader needs a good pivot.
So, real quick, here are the key elements of a successful pivot. P(riorities) I(ntercession), V(ision), O(bedience), and T(iming).
PRIORITIES
Don't let a good opportunity overwhelm your God opportunities. That is based on priorities. Any pivot that takes you off your God-given priorities is probably an adjustment you should not make or take. That's why every leader must establish their priorities early. Never let anyone or anything hi-jack your life. Stay focused on your priorities.
INTERCESSION
Pray. Pray. Pray. If you get an opportunity presented to you it is imperative to bathe it in prayer. Yes, it is great to get advice, but making sure that God is in it is even more important. We have this expression we say all the time at our church, "Pray it to life." In other words, if God has called us to it, no matter what, He will bring us through it! Talk to God. Get His consent above anyone else's.
VISION
Does this line up with your vision? Just because something is put in your lap does not mean you should put it in your hands. Sometimes you have to give opportunities back because they do not line up with your vision. Pastor David Crank says, "If it's God today it's God tomorrow." That means you don't have to change your vision every time the wind blows. Be consistent. Stay true to the vision God has called you to. If it violates your vision it may not be the right pivot.
OBEDIENCE
At some point you just have to obey when God speaks. When God calls you to make an adjustment or to take advantage of a moment you will have to just do it. You see, knowing God's will is a lot easier than obeying it. If God tells you to start a church, or launch a business, or go on a missions trip you will eventually have to obey. So, when God tells you to pivot your responsibility is just to obey.
TIMING
And yes, some pivots can't be immediate. The timing has to be right. the Bible says there is a time for everything. And that means you have to make sure you are in the right season for a major adjustment. John Maxwell says, "The right thing at the wrong time is the wrong thing. The wrong thing at the wrong time is the wrong thing. But the right thing at the right time is the right thing." Timing matters. Just because God said do it, does not mean you to "count the cost" before you make the pivot.
Every single person and leader I know that excels has mastered the art of the pivot. Put every adjustment or change through the above 5 filters and I believe it will save you a lot of heart ache and heart break!
Now, get out there and ask God, "Where do I need a good pivot?"