Impact Starts with a Pivot

In education, we often prepare students with structured paths—linear progressions that seem safe and predictable. But what if the best preparation isn’t a straight road at all? What if it’s a mindset shift—one that embraces change, uncertainty, and the ability to pivot?

Dr. Jen Bennett, Associate Professor of Entrepreneurship at Indiana Wesleyan University, believes exactly that. In our recent conversation, she highlighted a crucial truth: Impact starts with a pivot.

Jen has spent years working with college students who, like the K-12 students I work with, are eager to make an impact. But they also battle doubt: Can I really do this? Do I have the expertise? The resources? The skills?

Her answer? Yes. If you’re willing to shift your mindset and take the first step.

At Indiana Wesleyan, students develop entrepreneurial skills through hands-on experiences: generating 100 business ideas in a semester, conducting feasibility studies, and pitching their concepts in live competitions. It’s not just about starting a business—it’s about developing creativity, adaptability, and the confidence to step into new opportunities.

For students in Christian education, this also means stepping into a calling—seeing their skills as gifts meant for stewardship and impact.

Jen’s approach to entrepreneurship education offers valuable takeaways for K-12 educators, students, and leaders:

1. Normalize Failure as Part of Learning – Students fear failure because we’ve conditioned them to. Instead, we should reframe it as a crucial part of growth.

2. Encourage Action Over Perfection – Great ideas are meaningless without execution. The key is movement, testing, and iteration.

3. Teach the Power of the Pivot – The best opportunities often emerge from adjusting plans, not rigidly sticking to them.

4. Expand the Definition of Success – Not all students will start businesses, but all students benefit from an entrepreneurial mindset: problem-solving, leadership, and creativity.

With AI, industry shifts, and new global challenges, adaptability will be one of the most critical skills for the next generation. Our role as educators? To cultivate students who can identify opportunities, embrace change, and take action—no matter where their careers lead.

Dr. Bennett’s words stuck with me: "Employers want people who can solve problems and lead with vision. Entrepreneurship education prepares students for more than just business—it prepares them for life."

Impact doesn’t happen by accident—it happens through intentional learning, action, and adaptability. Where can you pivot to create impact?