Sunday, April 30, 2017

Diversify Your Brain Trust

Last night I hung out with three of my closest friends. We parked ourselves in the corner of a popular bar downtown. 

I marveled at how each of them were so well versed in a broad range of topics. My friend Dan could talk about his work in orthopedics, sharing his knowledge of common sports injuries, surgeries, and so on.

Sean, could talk for days about local politics, and of course the Golden State Warriors. 

And finally, Billy could share valuable insights on literature, cars, and writing. 

I spent a great deal of my past surrounding myself with passionate storytellers, but I fear it's often all we talked about. 

As I get older, I appreciate more and more the importance of knowing a little about a lot. The world becomes a much more compelling place and feeds your soul in unexpected ways when you push yourself to see, learn, and do more.

Whatever you do, surround yourself with like-minded people from all walks of life. Diversify your brain trust.

Saturday, April 29, 2017

What Do You Think?

Over the years I've had the great fortune of working as a casting reader for some very successful and famous artists of both Broadway and the silver screen. 

I remember one project in particular when I was helping out a very well-known and talented director. More importantly, she was also one of the warmest and most thoughtful people I'd ever met.

One afternoon, she asked me what I thought about the music arrangement in her play. Mind you, this production was about to appear on Broadway. I remember being very taken aback by the fact she valued what I had to say. And it wasn't because I didn't feel I had anything important to offer, but because she had a very seasoned and intelligent brain trust at her disposal. Nonetheless, she wanted to know what I thought.

I shared my opinion and could tell she really took them into consideration. It was a remarkable lesson in both humility and in understanding no matter how big you get, you can still be thoughtful, and appreciate that everyone has something worth to contributing.

Friday, April 28, 2017

The Benefits of Reading Stories

I'm getting ready for a summer teaching job. In a few weeks I'll go through roughly 120 hours of training all in an effort to give me the tools to teach kids ages 4 - 17 how to fall in love with reading. I'm looking forward to the skills and techniques I'll be taught because I believe I'll be able to use them in other arenas of my life.

I spent a great deal of my time reading biographies, self-development and entrepreneur books, that I sometimes forget that fiction expands your imagination in remarkable ways. 

But what I've learned by reading the required books, The Cricket in Times Square, The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe, and The Lord of the Rings is falling in love with fictional stories has many benefits. 

You learn to think critically, identify broad themes, and take solace in knowing you're not alone. Storytelling is the oldest form of cultivating community. And as readers, we have the opportunity to focus on our shared bond as creators, adventurers, and dreamers. 

Three things you're never too old to be.

Thursday, April 27, 2017

At a Crossroads

Last week alone I spoke with three actor friends who felt equally lost in their pursuits. "I don't jump out of bed anymore," one told me. "I'm at a crossroads," another said. 

I listened not quite knowing what to say. Instead, I shared how I'd dealt with the very same challenges when I wrestled with my own doubts of whether to continue acting.

The truth is, what you want at 25 will be different than what you want at 45. It doesn't mean you've quit a dream but that you've evolved as a person, and what you value most in life has changed. It's something we shouldn't feel bad about but should recognize as progress in our personal evolution.

If something is no longer giving you joy it's important to take some personal inventory and ask yourself why. What I've learned this year is we already know all the things we have to do. When we phone a close friend, or seek advice we're merely hoping they echo what we already know to be true within.

World traveler and best-selling author, Chris Guillebeau asks himself these two questions to determine when it's time to try something new:

1. Is it working?
2. Is it making me happy?

If the answer to both is no it may be time to chart a new path but it's something you need to decide. 

The moment I started to get really honest with myself and explore other meaningful relationships and experiences, opportunities I couldn't have predicted started coming my way. What's more, I became a better and happier artist.

And remember, even if you do decide to take a little break from your first love, you can always come back. A little distance may offer some much needed perspective. 

Having doubts is an integral and even exciting part of life. Just remember to frame it as an opportunity. 


Wednesday, April 26, 2017

You DO Have Enough Time

Yesterday, I was on a six-hour flight from New York to California. I caught up on some work, read a great deal, listened to a podcast, and got some rest. A few passengers around me decided to partake in the limitless forms of entertainment now available on any major carrier.

I want to make it clear I'm not placing judgment, but the woman in the row ahead of me watched not one, but three films in a row. Now, I love films more than anyone I know but knew I had work that just had to get done. And in fairness, maybe she'd already crossed off all her "to-do's" for the day. (I've certainly bing watched House of Cards on a cold February day.)

But I couldn't help but think about all the times I've heard people say, "I don't have any time," as an excuse for not getting projects they seemingly value completed. The truth is we do have time but often don't think broadly enough when it comes to utilizing chunks of time that seem out of bounds.

There's time to listen to a podcast while in traffic, or exercising. There's time to read an informative book while taking public transportation. We can skip a few nights of watching Netflix to start the first draft of that book, or play. 

When we say we don't have time what we're actually saying is "It's not a priority." I encourage you to think outside the box and find ways to chip away at a project of personal value by being more deliberate about your time. 

Remember, we all get the same amount of hours in a day but what we do with them is completely up to us.

Tuesday, April 25, 2017

You're Already Living the Dream

Yesterday afternoon, I stopped by an old friend's apartment for a much needed catch-up session. Kelley and I went to school together. She studied playwrighting the same time I was in the actor program. And it wasn't until we graduated that we forged a strong bond as storytellers navigating the unpredictable and competitive waters of New York theater. It was a wonderful time.

We often talk about what success looks like in our industry. There are plenty of conventional examples of course. Those who can boast they've won a Tony Award or two, or actors who find themselves on a hit series. 

But what Kelley and I realized was no matter what level of acclaim we were to ever receive, working on original works in a little black box theater packed with 15 fully invested audience members was the absolute best. Everything was out in front and we absolutely loved what we were doing. "We've already lived the dream," I told her. "I never thought of it that way, but you're totally right," she said. 

Unfortunately, we're conditioned to believe that success needs to come in a neatly packaged box. But true success is becoming great at something you love to do, and attainment of your goal is not the point but rather who you become in it's pursuit.

Take some personal inventory. You may have plowed right past a milestone, or remarkable achievement without giving yourself the credit. It's likely, you too, are already living the dream. 

Monday, April 24, 2017

Visit Your Old Stomping Grounds

Yesterday afternoon, I spent the day with an old friend. We met up in Harlem and then took a nice stroll by the Hudson River. "That's where I spent 3 years of my life," I told him, pointing to the 16th floor of Riverside Church. 

It felt like yesterday where 17 young bushy-browed actors would train on the cold hardwood floor of this historic tabernacle. Staring out toward the Hudson was like envisioning our dreams: it felt so far away, yet somehow within reach.

I think it's important to visit the places where you first dreamt a dream. It's not about holding on to the past or getting lost in nostalgia, but reminding yourself of who you were and what you once believed. 

There's a boldness that comes with youth. You don't know what you don't know and everything seems possible. And though it's important to set reachable goals, it's also great to take personal inventory once in a while to ask yourself why you have less faith in yourself.

Strolling through the campus of Columbia University and stopping by some of my old haunts reminded me that it's never too late to dig your heels in and fight for something important to you. The aspiration may have evolved as you have, but it doesn't mean it's too late to leave your mark.

Sunday, April 23, 2017

You Are Not Your IMDB Page

The entertainment industry in particular has a way of making people feel disempowered. Remarkably talented storytellers from all backgrounds equate their worth as storytellers with their resume, or the credits on their IMDB page.

Unfortunately, talent doesn't always lead to opportunity. And though at first glance that reality might be frustrating, I would argue it presents possibilities.

Think Unconventionally. Marcus Aurelius once said, "The secret of all victory lies in the organization of the non-obvious." Thinking differently sets you apart from the herd. Innovation with bold and broad thinking leads to bold and broad opportunities. Don't have the time, money, or the resources? Now you have to figure out a way to get them.

You Reframe Setbacks. Not getting exactly what you want is an integral part of life. But it's also an incredibly invaluable opportunity to learn to think flexibly. History and innovation are full of achievements that were results of someone veering off a trail once perceived to be the only way. The most influential on-camera teacher I've ever worked with once studied to become an actor before a mentor of his saw he had the potential to be a great teacher. He took the man's advice and has become one of the most sought after instructors in the business. The point is to not be rigid in your thought process and allow setbacks to propel you rather than stifle you.

You Have to Create Your Own Breaks. Hope is not a strategy. It's very likely you will never get that call for the perfect part, or opportunity so you need to create it. And with action comes an awakening to your own potential. Just begin something, anything, then stick with it. With consistency comes a heightened focus. Focus begets personal meaning. Action + Consistency + Focus = Personal Fulfillment

Get started. We're all waiting to see what you come up with.






Saturday, April 22, 2017

With Action Comes an Awakening to Your Potential

A friend of mine met his girlfriend after he finally decided to take initiative with his dating life and sign-up for a matching site. Only, he didn't meet her online. He met her while getting a haircut.

Another friend received the opportunity to travel to South Africa for a youth enrichment program after doing terrific work in a school production.

What's my point? When you take initiative and put out an energy of collaboration, flexibility, and an availability to possibilities, good things begin to take shape.

And though the opportunities that come along may not be in exact alignment with what you'd hoped, you may end up taking a path you didn't foresee, but also turns out to be better.

Friday, April 21, 2017

Focus as If You're Only in Town for a Week

Whenever I come back to New York I make an effort to see as many close friends as possible.

There's usually a great deal to do when I arrive but it's also important to see the people I care about, so I make a very focused effort to schedule my priorities and make the rounds.

Nine out of ten times I end up seeing all the people I want to, while attending to what needs to get done because I make them "musts." I'd even argue that my level of productivity is heightened because the stakes feel higher and there's less time.

What if we all focused on our goals with the same intensity as one might if they were only in town for a week? Cut out the distractions, only attended to what was absolutely essential, and prioritized your non-negotiables? 

It'd be a good week. 

Thursday, April 20, 2017

It's Not as Difficult as You Think

Last night, 6 close friends came over to my place to listen to an informal reading of my one-man show. It was great to reconnect with people I hadn't seen in several months, and in some cases, years. 

We all huddled in my cramped guest room, sitting on makeshift chairs as paintbrushes and dust made it clear renovations were well underway. Even the main lights weren't working forcing me to read in a dimly lit corridor as my friends listened quietly in the dark.

But none of this stopped us from having a wonderful time. In fact, it made it more memorable. I also got some very helpful feedback about tweaks I could make to improve the piece.

Later that evening, I was walking with my friend James and he asked about the complexity of the project. I told him, what I tell a lot of young actors looking to create their own work. "It's not that hard."

First, just decide that you want to do it.

Second, start chipping away each day and commit to writing 10, 15, 20 minutes a day until a first draft is complete. Consistency is key. And don't worry about the how good it is at first. The quality will catch up.

Third, get some friends together and let them hear it out loud. Not only will they come out and support you as a friend, but they'll respect and admire the effort.

A lot of artists don't get started because the task feels too daunting. I've learned if you take it bit by bit it will end up getting done sooner than you think. And hopefully, you'll have remembered to enjoy the creative process along the way. 

Wednesday, April 19, 2017

Just Decide

Any trace of stress or misgivings I experience about a project can usually be traced to indecision. There's a safety that comes from hedging our bets. "I"ll do it if there's time, or when I get the money." But saying, "I will do it no matter what," is different. It puts the onus on you to follow through on your word. Scarier? Yes. But far more rewarding. And it's the only way things of value get done.

Drawing a line in the sand and choosing to follow through on a project, big or small, means you're admitting how important something is to you. Taking action means your honoring that feeling. And with action comes an awakening to your potential. 


Tuesday, April 18, 2017

Resist Being Bullied

I believe trying to talk someone out of their deepest aspirations is a form of bullying. It's a tactic of projecting fear, doubt, and bitterness on to someone with the hope they won't pursue a dream another didn't have the courage to follow themself.

Unfortunately, such opposition often comes from the people who love us most and claim to have our best interests at heart. And in fairness, maybe they believe that. I'm not suggesting you be closed off to constructive feedback but that you protect your dreams fiercely.

Whether it's the arts or some other less conventional career path, when what we do doesn't align with someone's understanding of the world they feel threatened. But if there's one thing I've learned it's that someone else's misgivings about you and your form of expression isn't your problem. 

You're going to come up against a great deal of resistance in this industry so it's crucial you surround yourself with like-minded people who support your vision, have your back, and will hold you accountable to taking action. 

Monday, April 17, 2017

Do.

"Be one of the few who do rather than the many who talk." These words stopped me in my tracks the other day as I listened to an audiobook. I took personal inventory of all the times in my life I said I'd do something only to get distracted with another project or forget my proclamation entirely. 

What I've learned, particularly in the last few years, is there is no shortage of people who claim they'll do things. There is however, a deficit who say as they do and do as they say.

I have a great empathy for this struggle and believe it comes down to the fact that people don't think they know how to get started. The truth is, you already know exactly what you need to do. The missing components are confidence and action. The first step is the simplest and hardest - beginning.

Say you want to write a novel. An ambitious goal no doubt, but far from impossible. Sit down and write one sentence. Tomorrow try and write two, even if they're awful. Just begin and stick with it. 

Soon, you'll develop a sense of consistency and once you do that good luck to anyone who tries to stop you. You will move mountains to maintain a routine if it's important enough to you. That is, if your "why" is lined with your core values.

You can get your voice out into the world, but it requires a sense of calm, concentration, and a heightened intuition that you have the capacity to create something of value, which you most certainly do. 

Here's to the Starters. 

Sunday, April 16, 2017

Going Beyond the Bare Minimum

There's a security guard at the supermarket I go to. I'd guess he's in his mid-50s or so. He wears the standard uniform and always makes the rounds through this busy shopping center with a smile. At first glance, there doesn't appear to be anything unique about how he goes about his job. Except there is...

Whenever he has the chance he bags groceries, (something he's not paid to do), he offers people help with their items, and he walks around the store with an enthusiasm you can't fabricate. He takes genuine pride in his job and goes beyond what is expected of him. 

As a result, he's earned the respect of his colleagues and appreciation of customers. He understands that just because we can do the bare minimum of what are duties officially demands of us it doesn't mean we have to.  

Saturday, April 15, 2017

Do Less

When I slowed down I heard more, noticed more, and felt more. And paradoxically, all of this "more" started to happen when I did less.

Today, I invite you to focus on not doing too much and see what discoveries you stumble upon.

Friday, April 14, 2017

It's the Little Things

Last night I went home to visit my dad who'd just returned from a long trip. I hadn't seen him for 6 weeks and could tell he was happy to see me.  

As we get older our lives get busier, our priorities change, and sometimes important relationships get overlooked. It is for precisely these reasons why making a little extra effort can have such a profound influence.

It may be handwriting a letter instead of sending an email. Calling to check on someone instead of texting. Putting in another hour of rehearsal, or driving a few miles out of your way to check on a loved one.

You may not realize it, but the quality of your attention can have enormous value.

Thursday, April 13, 2017

The Trouble with Asking for Too Much Advice

Yesterday was "Phone Day." I'll be the first to admit I prefer speaking with people face-to-face, but time constraints, geography, and convenience sometimes make the telephone the only option.

I spoke with two friends who know a great deal about branding and the importance of clarifying your message to an audience. Both men were wildly different in temperament, age, and interests. But each had valuable bits of advice to share.

At the end of the exchanges, I felt a little overwhelmed. For weeks I'd been digging into my "brain trust" and asking the brightest people I knew how to best move my creative endeavors forward. But now, I'd finally reached one too many opinions on what to do. I was experiencing paralysis through analysis. 

Chances are, you already know what it is you have to do. Maybe you just haven't taken enough personal inventory of the next steps you need to take. Perhaps fear, or a lack of confidence is also playing a role in your business. Whatever the case, asking for counsel has its limits. 

I've learned it's important to constantly hone and refine your "why." Why is something important to you? Why does it matter?

Once you've zeroed in on your singular purpose, I'm confident you'll find the means within. People can still support and offer a bit of advice here and there, but now they'll mainly be there to remind you of what you already know.

Wednesday, April 12, 2017

What I Talk About When I Talk About Artists

Ever felt like there's a hierarchy on careers? A close friend of mine seems almost consumed by which professions are important and those that aren't. Traditionally admired paths like doctor, or engineer get a 5 star rating in his assessment, but less conventional callings rank lower.

Still, it all comes down to the value you attribute to what you do. If a physician saves a life isn't it then about what that life goes on to do? How he or she influences the community, forges relationships, and leaves a legacy? Don't teachers, artists, and actors have the same capacity? Perhaps we don't save lives in the conventional sense, but maybe we lift a spirit, offer a little hope. Who's to say this isn't an equally worthwhile pursuit?

In his memoir, What I Talk About When I Talk About Running, Haruki Murakami says the following: 

"Even if, seen from the outside, or from some higher vantage point, this sort of life looks pointless or futile, or even extremely inefficient, it doesn't bother me. Maybe it's some pointless act like, as I've said before, pouring water into an old pan that has a hole in the bottom, but at least the effort you put into it remains. Whether it's good for anything or not, cool or totally uncool, in the final analysis what's most important is what you can't see but can feel in your heart." 

If it's important to you it's important enough.

Tuesday, April 11, 2017

The Dangers of a To-Do List

For years I'd wake up early, set forth on my morning routine (reading, exercising, studying a positive resource in the form of a TED Talk, or article), then dive into my to-do list.

I committed myself fully to this daily archive, this sacred scroll. And nothing was better than the satisfaction I'd get from crossing off one task after another. I got a lot done.

Looking back, I now know many, if not most, of the things "I got done," could have been delegated, tabled, or weren't necessary at all. 

In all those years I failed to take inventory of whether or not the tasks I was sure needed to get done were actually important. In other words, I'd prioritized my schedule, instead of scheduling my priorities.

Once you discover the difference you'll be well on your way towards taking the action steps that truly matter in getting you closer to where you want to be. 

I just hope it doesn't take you as long to figure out as it did for me.


Monday, April 10, 2017

Secret Sauce

I remember once overhearing a classmate in drama school confidently proclaim, "I already know everything I need to know about myself." He was 21 years old.

He's done growing, I thought. And far wiser men have thought the same. Former UCLA Basketball coach and 10-National Champion John Wooden once shared, "If I am through learning, I am through.

Writer and leadership speaker Robin Sharma says the secret sauce used by superachievers is as a lust for asking questions. It's having a childlike sense of wonder and a commitment to Always Be Learning (ABL) that not only keeps them young, but fuels their creativity and success. Ideas are currency. 

Stay curious. No matter where you are, you've only just begun.

Sunday, April 9, 2017

It Will All Come Together

When I first started out as an actor, writer, and filmmaker there was a great deal left to be desired. Come to think of it, everything was a mess in the beginning.

In time, I somehow clung to the notion that if I remained consistent the quality would eventually catch up. And to my relief it eventually did.

Focus on building routine first. The rest will fall into place.

Saturday, April 8, 2017

Find Someone Who Only Believes in Possibility

If you're ever in need of inspiration get around someone young. I recently started working with a 22-year old actor from Los Angeles who has infused a new sense of energy into, To the Prospective Artist movement.

His excitement and enthusiasm for the mission to help actors and artists live bold lives "off-stage, full of new experiences, relationships, and people has been a real inspiration to me.

There is just something about having everything out in front of you than can't be fabricated. There's a joy and belief that anything is possible that accompanies youth and though we can protect that sensibility as we get older, being around someone who only sees how an idea will thrive is pretty special.


Friday, April 7, 2017

Don't Take Advice So Literally

This morning as I was driving, an excerpt of the very large audiobook I've been listening to literally stopped me in my tracks. The book is about investing and developing a better financial IQ.

"You need to rebalance your portfolio on a regular basis," I heard the voice say. "This requires discipline."

It then dawned on me that though this was very helpful advice when it came to keeping your finances in order, it was also equally valuable insight to nearly every facet of life. Take regular inventory of what you're doing to see if it's actually working, I thought.

How many times have we taken a bit of advice from a book written by someone who claims to be an expert in a field and only applied it to that discipline? Why not cross-pollinate those big bold ideas?

Why can't the lessons from a book about finance be relevant to what you put into your body? What can science teach us about leadership? And on and on.

My take, don't take advice so literally. You might find the lessons gained from one area of expertise apply to others as well.





Thursday, April 6, 2017

Just Be Quiet and Listen

A few years ago a friend called me in a bit of panic. "Do you have time for a quick coffee? I really need to talk to someone," he said.

So we met up at a popular little cafe on the corner of 26th and 7th avenue. We sat by the window as I listened to him describe a problem he'd been struggling with for quite some time. I sat. And sat. And sat before he finally stopped to ask, "So what do you think?"

Just a few moments into my very broad assessment he stopped me. "I don't agree," he said. "Wait a minute," I shot back. "I came out to meet you. I politely listened to what you had to say. You asked me my opinion and now I'm giving you my honest take. Please don't ask me what I think and then criticize it because you don't like what I have to say." He nodded, apologized, and thankfully we moved on.

Two nights ago the roles were reversed. I sat listening to a very successful entrepreneur offer his take on my business goals and personal website. 'It sucks," he told me. "It's nice to look at but I don't understand what you're trying to say. It's all over the place."

I realized in that instant I had an opportunity to defend myself and tell him I was underwhelmed by his website. But I didn't.

This gentlemen had taken time to speak with me for free at the end of a very long day. And though I didn't agree with everything he had to say there was undoubtedly a great deal I could learn from him. 

I learned the importance of both following your own advice and having the integrity to just be quiet and hear some one out first, even if you disagree. I could decide afterward which bits of advice to sift through and what to incorporate.   

The point is, there's a teachable moment in every situation, encounter, and environment. If we're too busy defending our ego we'll miss it.

Wednesday, April 5, 2017

If It Were Easy, Everybody Would Do It

It's so important to surround yourself with passionate and forward-thinking people. It's also vital to incorporate helpful resources like great books, podcasts, and online courses into your daily routine. But that can all be a disservice if you don't remember one thing...

one size does not fit all. Apply what applies to you. 

Whether you're trying to make headway in your acting career, trying to position yourself as an expert in your field, or working to launch a business, conventional wisdom tells us if you just follow a certain 12-step program you'll get to where you need to be.

The truth is, those steps were developed by some who benefited from them. They might not be for you. Your experiences, skill set, and philosophies are completely different. 

What's my point? Develop the ability to question everything (even this blog!) and filter out what doesn't apply to your path and implement what does.

But the most important part is you have to possess a fundamental belief in yourself that you're capable of doing it in the first place. If there is not an inherent sense of confidence in your vision, no system, no matter who developed it, will work. 


Tuesday, April 4, 2017

Come Sit With Us

I was sitting in a coffee shop the other day when I turned to my right and saw three elderly men sitting in the much coveted window booth. I'd practically seen fights break out over this spot.

A gentlemen, who'd apparently been standing in line didn't take too kindly to the new tenants. "That's my seat!" he shouted. "See! I left my newspaper there," he added before stomping off to pick up his coffee.

The three men mumbled amongst themselves, "You always see newspapers in coffee shops. How were we supposed to know?" This seemed grounds for justification and so they decided to stay.

When the man returned with his coffee he was less than pleased to discover the status of his table hadn't change. "Move!" he barked.

Then in an almost Zen like fashion, one of the gentlemen said, "Hey, why don't you come sit with us. We're very interesting."

Amazingly, the man obliged and for the next several minutes the four men enjoyed one another's company. What's more, the man who'd claimed the seat earlier was engaged. The men asked questions about his work, his past - his life. And it was obvious to me that no one had in a while. 

A potentially volatile situation was diffused all by connection. It seemed a lesson pertinent to every actor, artist, or entrepreneur: never underestimate the power of connection and community in whatever you do. 

Monday, April 3, 2017

Weeds Grow Fast

Just a few months ago I walked past a wine bar conveniently situated on the corner of a busy street lined with shops, restaurants, and bars. The sun was out and every patio table was taken as people chatted away carefree over snacks and white wine. 

Today, that place is completely gone. The only sign of life that remains is a placard hanging in the window that reads: "Space Available for Lease." What's more, the place looks as though it was abandoned another decade ago. Most notably, weeds have already taken over what not long ago was an impeccable courtyard full of customers.

What I realized is twofold: things are not always as they seem and you need to always stay on top of your game. You must constantly put in the work. You simply cannot rest on your past accomplishments, or yesterday's revenue.

For years I believed that once you reached a certain level in your career or business it would be smooth sailing. But what I learned as a casting reader, performing opposite some of the biggest names of the stage and silver screen is you never not have challenges, you merely trade your old ones for new ones. But in order to even stay in that position you have to keep getting better. If you don't, others catch up.

Actors especially know this all too well. You're only as good as your last job. But what do you do in the interim? As a mentor once said to me, when you haven't received the break you've been so desperately looking for, whether it's in show business, a job promotion, or finding a partner, you have to continually work on craft.

In other words, you need to stay ready. 


Sunday, April 2, 2017

Don't Assume You've Done Your Best Work

"I constantly tweak and move on, peeling back layers of the onion as new ones arrive. If something didn't work - like if I put a dress up for auction and no one was bidding on it - I didn't just assume that no one wanted it. I just tried something else. I rewrote the product description, or swapped out the thumbnail because I thought that maybe people couldn't judge the silhouette correctly from the original picture I'd posted. I never assumed that I'd just done my best job the first time around." 

- Sophia Amoruso founder of Nasty Gal

I love the spirit infused in this quote as I'm sure it resonates with many actors and artists. Too often we feel because our first approach didn't go exactly according to plan it's time to hang it up and move on to the next project. 

Maybe we shared an excerpt of a play we wrote to a lukewarm response, or the short film we toiled over and spent our own money on didn't get accepted to that festival we had our hearts set on. We might think, What's the use?

I can tell you from my own experience that sometimes people aren't ready for what it is you have to offer. It takes time for people to come around and appreciate your vision.

Perhaps the best example I can think of is Paulo Cohelo's international bestseller, The Alchemist which existed in the shadows of relative obscurity for nearly a decade. Good luck finding someone now who hasn't heard of the book.

The point is to keep throwing ideas against the wall without abandoning the ones still important to you. 

Saturday, April 1, 2017

Strengthen Your Self-Validation Muscle

"I seek neither your approval nor to influence you." - Bruce Lee

"Not one drop of my self-worth depends on your acceptance of me." - Quincy Jones

Two inspiring quotes from two extraordinary men. What these gentlemen understood was waiting for permission and validation from others to live a singular existence is a trap because you'll never fully gain it no matter what you do.

It's important to understand the difference between being open to feedback and even constructive criticism, while cultivating the ability to see when someone is trying to project their personal fears and misgivings on to you. 

For people in the arts, this is an especially delicate dance. Because it is arguably the most challenging line of work there is you will come up against many people who tell you what you do lacks meaning, or isn't a real profession. This requires a real mental toughness.

But if you weather those storms than eventually people come around or stop trying to talk you out of it completely. They've accepted the fact you've chosen a certain path which you refuse to be obstructed from. 

In time, you'll develop an even greater gift: you will learn the only validation you need is your own.