I, and I’m sure many of us here, are what people might call the “creative type”. It’s usually either a compliment or a condescension…either way, embrace it!

The Passion Trap is so interesting because I totally agree. It sucks to love something as much as we do, we really suffer for our art. In my world, Media is still a secondary passion to my love for theatre and performing but I still enjoy it nonetheless. Too bad I couldn’t pick another degree that would give me a better chance at job security, huh?! But, alas, all my (mostly creative) interests already fall under highly saturated industries with too many talented people and not enough jobs to go around so I might as well do things I actually like doing. It’s funny but recently I’ve felt more at peace with my “just for money” jobs in the hospitality/retail industries because I’ve felt the direct impact that money has had on my continuing to do what I do. Of course I will continue to FIGHT FOR LIFE to get out of there and get money from “passion” or “dream” jobs that don’t suck the joy out of my eyes but I can never complain about having money for dancing lessons or shiny new software. Bohemian life is cool but you can’t do a Carrie Bradshaw forever!

 

When I did a Diploma of Music Theatre last year the emphasis was Industry, Industry, Industry. I feel like I’ve been hardened and aged in that year from being broken down and built back up. What we do for love, hey? Yes be driven, enthusiastic, and obsessed with what you do but you can’t just yearn. Along with Media, you have to be specific and know what you want to achieve.

I especially love the Six Traits of Deliberate Practice mentioned in the “Chess Grandmaster” reading about repetition and the consistent amounts of high mental exertion demanded to truly improve. If we choose this passion path, we gotta be ready to fight for the top and use all our assets to level up in this game. Maybe it’s the Slytherin in me?

When Newport talks about the “Dream Job Delusion”, I get it. Hours of practice, emotional investment, and sweat poured into something strangers on the other side of the table reject without a second thought – welcome to the real world. Most don’t succeed at what they love. Are we going to join them?

 

You don’t climb to the top; you claw your way there.

Charlies Angels (1977)