Written by Krystal Jugarap
The Beauty of Pivoting – Sometimes the vision isn’t clear from the start. Most of the time it takes curiosity, a whole lot of grace, and the courage to keep taking one step forward until a new path reveals itself and a fire is inadvertently lit.
This was the case for EM/POWEREDbyWMN and its founder, Krystal Jugarap. The community platform materialized as a byproduct of Krystal’s first business, BOOKofBIJOUX. Starting that business instilled a desire to be surrounded by and operate in support of other women entrepreneurs. This led to the creation of EM/POWEREDbyWMN. At the time, there was no realized intention for the platform to become what it is today.
Now, the spark of the women empowerment movement has led to an ever-growing blaze riddled with passion and Krystal has a strong vision for the future–one that celebrates true community, without competition, and where women eagerly show up in support of one another. EM/POWEREDbyWMN operates in recognition that there’s more than enough for all of us and that every single person has the power to contribute something magical to the next.
It’s a common saying that entrepreneurship is lonely. But does it have to be? At EM/POWEREDbyWMN, the answer is a firm “Absolutely not”.
It’s when you decide that the common saying above is not definitive, that you are able to collapse time and expand both your mindset and brand presence. It’s when you prioritize community and collaboration that opportunities begin flooding in. With their frequent networking events, weekly coaching calls, and intentional referral and facilitated introduction m.o., they’re actively combatting the notion that business has to be done alone and the women in their community have proven time and time again how powerful collaboration can truly be.
While the quick pivot from a product business to a service-based one wasn’t anticipated, the platform has been welcomed with open arms by hundreds of women who share the same community-centered values. It’s a testament to the power of showing up and welcoming what’s meant for you.
We asked members of the EM/POWEREDbyWMN community to describe a time in their lives when they experienced a significant pivot and how they navigated the change along with the stresses and uncertainty that came with it. Here’s what they said:
In 2020, I hit an all-time low. The world paused, and I was left to confront a truth I’d been avoiding—I only went to work because I enjoyed being around my coworkers. Once that connection was gone, all I had left was a job I hated. I was crying three days a week, overwhelmed by stress and uncertainty. Something had to change.
Desperate for relief, I began a new practice: standing in front of the mirror and saying affirmations. It started small—“Good morning, gorgeous”—a tiny spark of self-love. Over time, my affirmations grew bolder: “I am trusting the journey,” “I am speaking and traveling the world.” Every word was a lifeline, a promise to myself. I chose to believe in my vision, even when it felt impossible.
The power of those affirmations transformed my life. I manifested my first international speaking gig in Paris, a dream I’d once only whispered to myself. Soon after, I achieved my first $10K month, something I had previously thought was out of reach.
That pivot taught me the power of my words, my beliefs, and my resilience. It showed me that transformation begins the moment you decide to speak life into yourself, no matter where you’re starting from.
Starting my current role was a significant pivot in my life, one that truly challenged me. I took a big pay cut, leaving behind a familiar career and stepping into an entirely new world. As someone who struggled with my own finances, I know the overwhelming stress of being unsure of what to do or where to go when it comes to managing money. That’s why stepping into this role felt so empowering. I was able to use my personal experience to help others navigate similar challenges.
Watching clients gain control over their finances and feel confident about their future was incredibly fulfilling. It reminded me of my own journey, and how much of a difference having the right support and guidance can make.
Navigating this change wasn’t easy, but I took it day by day, trusting the process. Now, looking back, I can confidently say it was the right decision for me. While I’m still learning and growing, I’m grateful for the opportunity to make a meaningful impact in people’s financial lives.
- Connect with Krystal Jugarap
- Read More articles from EM/POWEREDbyWMN members.