Postpartum Navigation:

Finding the Flow in Business and Life's River of Change

 I am lucky enough to live by the river Tay and when people come to visit, I often tell them I like to live by the river as I had heard that if you live by the river the water can take away your stress and I like this idea. The last month has been a time of lots of changes and challenges, I have had to take the difficult decision to end my face-to-face classes and am looking at serving customers online through one-to-one classes and coaching.

 As I look out at the river daily, I think about the course that the river takes, the fascinating journey of change, often taking the path of least resistance which can sometimes be over a cliff.

 Like each of my children, this new business is a completely new and different experience to me. When I then think about how my business has taken a turn - not because it wanted to, but because it had to, I see subtle hints of how the twists and turns of building a new business reflects the experience of having a child and how each experience can affect mental well-being.

A Business on the River of Life

If I imagine my business as a paddle board on the river, my goal is to navigate it successfully. Like a river, the path might not always be a serene downstream float. At times, I’ll find myself trying to paddle upstream, encountering obstacles, and feeling like I’m stuck in a whirlpool of chaos. Just as the river's current influences the paddleboards path, life's currents can impact my mental well-being.

When I started Dip Into Nature, I thought I had my strategy all worked out. I wanted it to take the most natural path possible with organic growth, but the rural setting made it difficult and whilst I loved serving those customers, I couldn’t see a sustainable model in this setting which could meet the needs of my family.

Life is a lot like running a business. Just when you think you've got your strategy all figured out, a curveball comes your way. Maybe it's an unpredictable market shift, a new competitor, or simply realizing that the path you're on doesn't quite lead to the treasure you were seeking.

 Businesses, just like people, sometimes find themselves off course, it seems to sail smoothly, sticking to its course leisurely drift, but a sudden downpour, an economic hiccup, or unforeseen challenges can change the entire journey. They can suddenly find themselves at a crossroads, needing to embrace a new direction or sometimes getting out of the water completely until it’s safe to get back in. In the business world, a pivot is a strategic shift, and it often becomes necessary when the initial plan doesn't flow as smoothly as expected.

Postpartum mental health can also be a journey akin to navigating a river with unseen obstacles. New mothers often experience a surge of emotions and may find themselves navigating uncharted waters. It's crucial to acknowledge that the journey might be rough, but seeking support and understanding that it's part of the process can help you stay afloat. These moments we encounter prompt us to reassess our direction and the key is to trust the process and be open to pivoting when the situation calls for it.

Pivoting and Mental Health

Life can demand change at any moment, just like a river can change its course. In both business and personal life, knowing when to pivot can make all the difference. Just as a I have had to adapt my business and my expectation; we must all adapt to the evolving seasons of our lives. The decision to pivot can lead to unexpected opportunities, much like discovering a hidden treasure in an unexplored part of the river.

When we talk about postpartum mental health, pivoting might mean seeking help, leaning on a support system, or making necessary changes in your daily routine. It is often in times of upheaval that we find the strength to adapt and learn. The crucial lesson here is to trust the flow, be open to change, and remember that every obstacle you encounter can lead to a brighter, more fulfilling path.

Trusting the process

Life is an unpredictable journey, much like a river with its twists and turns. This business, facing the currents of change, is a testament to the adaptability that's required of us in the ever-changing river of life. We must acknowledge that change can be a catalyst for growth, even when it's thrust upon us. With the recent storms and flooding in the area, I can’t help but think that it’s taken a lot of water traveling past me to clear my head and allow me to trust the process and take the path of least resistance in front of me. This doesn’t mean it’s going to be the easy path. Embracing change can lead to personal and professional growth, and when it comes to mental health, it can be the bridge to recovery and wellbeing.

As you navigate the river of life, remember that change is natural. Whether in business or in personal life, the ability to pivot and trust the process is your greatest asset. We may not always choose the path, but we can decide how we sail it. Life's transformations, much like this business's pivot, can bring forth new opportunities, growth, and ultimately a journey worth embarking upon.

So, keep your paddle at the ready, trust the flow, and be open to pivoting when the time is right. The river of life may meander and surprise you, but with resilience and an open heart, you'll always find your way.

With love and understanding,

Leanne x