Seize Pivotal Moments
Pivotal moments disrupt life. Running from them shrinks your future.
Pivotal moments are interventions that expand potential.
Marcus Aurelius said, “The impediment to action advances action. What stands in the way becomes the way.”
Pivotal Moments…
#1. Arrive Unexpectedly
The most important moments surprise you. They sneak up behind you.
#2. Involve Others
Circumstances impact your journey. But the thing that changes you most is people.
Someone will…
- See strengths in you that you don’t see.
- Call you to take on new responsibilities.
- Confront your attitudes or behaviors.
- Challenge your assumptions.
#3. Feel Awkward
Pivotal moments feel dangerous. Growth feels awkward.
#4. Require Reflection
Don’t close your eyes and press forward. Practice structured self-reflection. Ask:
- What does this situation ask of me?
- Who does this disruption call me to become?
- What does this person see that I don’t?
- What is making me feel awkward? Why?
#5. Call for Change
Growth requires you to release the known and grasp the untested.
Create Pivotal Moments
Ask a leader:
- What do you see in me that I’m missing?
- What do you suggest I start, stop, or continue?
- Where am I wasting effort?
- What danger signs do you see on my path?
Embrace disruption. Expand impact.
Who made you stronger by disrupting your life?
How can you create growth moments for others? (See #2 above.)
