The Power of Flexibility in Business: Why Being Bendy Is Often Better
When it comes to flexibility, I'm probably the last person you'd consider an expert. Although it's a part of my gym routine and I've seen some improvement over time, let's shift the focus from physical flexibility to business flexibility.
Understanding when to bend, to pivot, and when to switch directions is one of the trickiest aspects of business. It's crucial to balance strength and resilience with adaptability. I've ventured into various business ideas within our company, some of which didn't pan out. But recognizing when to halt, to put aside stubbornness, and pivot has been a key skill.
Let's take a peek into a couple of endeavours:
Pick a Pocket: A venture into a pocket handkerchief business that had potential but lacked the necessary expertise and time for execution.
Active Gymnastic Mats: After winning an investment bid, we worked on developing this project. However, we realized the material we were using couldn't fulfil the requirements of a standard gym mat in schools.
These are just a few examples of projects we've strategically stopped, allowing us to pivot and explore other avenues within our business.
Understanding the market pulse and recognizing what it demands have been pivotal for Inspired Schools. Post-pandemic, we honed in on holiday camps, expanded our sports coaching team, and broadened our playground markings offering.
Key Takeaway - Be Agile and Resilient:
The foundational lesson here is not getting stuck on a single idea. Failure is okay; it's a learning curve. What's crucial is the ability to adapt, learn from setbacks, and forge ahead with renewed vigour.
Flexibility in business isn't about abandoning ship at the first sign of trouble but rather the ability to navigate challenges by being adaptable and responsive to market needs.
So, while being strong and determined is crucial, remember, sometimes, being bendy and flexible in your approach can take your business to unexplored heights.