You had a plan.
You did the research.
You launched with excitement.
But now, months (or even years) in… things just aren’t adding up. The energy is low. The results aren’t matching the effort. And you’re left wondering: Should I keep pushing—or is it time to shift?
It’s a tough place to be. Because many Nigerian entrepreneurs were raised on the gospel of “don’t give up.” But here’s the truth: pivoting is not quitting—it’s strategy.
Some of the most successful businesses you admire today didn’t start out the way they look now. They evolved. They listened. They adjusted. They pivoted.
So how do you know when it’s time to do the same?
The Vision Is Still Clear, But the Model Isn’t Working
Sometimes your business idea is good—but the way you’re executing it isn’t clicking. Maybe you’re solving the right problem, but selling it to the wrong audience. Or your pricing model is off. Or your methods are outdated in a market that’s changing fast.
If you find yourself working round the clock but still not gaining traction, the issue may not be your commitment—it may be the approach.
Ask yourself: Is there another way to deliver this same value more effectively?
You’re Holding On Out of Pride, Not Potential
This one’s hard to admit. Sometimes we keep pushing a failing business not because it’s showing potential—but because we told everyone about it and we don’t want to “fail in public.”
You’ve changed your bio, printed flyers, posted on Instagram. And now, letting go feels like embarrassment. But pride should never be the reason you stay stuck.
Ask yourself: If nobody knew I was doing this, would I still be doing it?
The Market Has Moved—But You Haven’t
Trends shift. Customer habits evolve. Entire industries can change direction in a matter of months. If you’re still offering what made sense three years ago, it may not be that you’re doing the wrong thing—it might just be the wrong time.
Smart entrepreneurs watch the signs and adapt before they’re forced to.
Ask yourself: Am I holding on to an outdated method because it’s familiar?
You’re Constantly Running on Empty
Burnout is a warning sign, not a badge of honour. If every day feels like a struggle, and you can’t remember the last time your business excited you—it may be time to step back and reassess.
Working hard is normal. But working endlessly with no results, no clarity, and no joy? That’s not sustainable.
Ask yourself: If I were starting from scratch today, would I still build this same business?
What to Do Next: How to Pivot the Smart Way
If something deep inside you is telling you it’s time for a shift, listen. But don’t panic. Here’s how to move with clarity:
1. Step Back and Review Honestly
What exactly isn’t working? Is it your product, your audience, your model—or your messaging? You can’t pivot wisely if you haven’t diagnosed the issue clearly.
2. Talk to Your Customers
Ask for real feedback. What do they need now? What’s working for them? You might discover that your next big idea is hidden in their answers.
3. Brainstorm Possibilities, Not Just Problems
Could you restructure your offer? Serve a new niche? Add a digital option? Keep the core idea, but explore new expressions.
4. Test Before You Toss
Try the pivot on a small scale. Run a pilot or soft launch. You don’t need to overhaul everything overnight—just take one smart step.
5. Get Support
Talk to someone who’s done it before. Whether it’s a coach, mentor, or support service like Kudi Konsult, don’t try to figure it all out alone. The right insight can save you time, money, and energy.
Final Word
You’re not weak for considering a pivot. You’re wise for recognising when something isn’t working.
This journey you’re on isn’t just about sticking to one plan. It’s about building something that works—and sometimes that means letting go of what no longer serves your vision.
So take the pressure off. Step back. Reflect. And when the moment feels right, don’t be afraid to move in a new direction.
Because the pivot might just be your best business move yet.
