You know the voice I’m talking about. The one that whispers diligently to your soul, telling you what you REALLY want to be doing, however impractical it may seem. I recently decided to listen to that voice. What it told me was no big surprise. In fact, it was the same thing it told me 20 years ago, before I went off to get “reasonable” job in finance. So, 2 decades later the verdict remains the same. What am I passionate about? Making documentaries and music videos, of course!
I declare that I will no longer whine about what I want to be doing. I will no longer tolerate excuses and stalls. I will listen to my heart and start NOW. I am sharing this with the blogosphere to a. hold myself accountable b. encourage others to take the first step toward their own dreams.
Music Video. Excuses: 1.The art of music video is dying. 2.Musicians don’t have money to pay for videos these days. 3.I would have to move to LA to do this and compete with people way more experienced than me.
ACTION STEP: I heard about this music video opportunity here in my city. I told them I was interested and I received the song I am to create a short film for. It is beautiful and very inspiring. If my film is chosen it will be shown at the band’s release party. No money involved, but a great opportunity to do something I have always wanted to do. It will also provide me an opportunity to meet other creative minds which is always inspiring to me.
Documentary. Excuses: 1. I’m not familiar with long-form video. 2. I don’t have a story 3. There is zero money in this field 4. I don’t have “connections” in this industry
ACTION STEP: I am looking into volunteering for the upcoming Docuwest film festival. Might be a good place to meet some people. Also I joined the Film Society where they have a monthly documentary night. There was just a big article in the newspaper about how my city is a hotbed for documentary filmmakers. Really? I didn’t even know that. Guess it’s time I get in the loop.
I still think some of my excuses are valid, especially the ones with money. It’s always a heightened challenge to prusue dreams that are artistic in nature. In our culture we do not highly value the arts. If you want big bucks, computers or plasic surgery are your best options. Also we have the stereotype of the “starving artist” which is super negative. On the otherhand artists have a huge advantage and this is creativity! We can find unique ways to turn our dreams to dollars. I have no idea if/how the money will come to me. But I am taking the first steps to listening to “the voice” and I don’t think that voice is ever harmful or wrong.
Won’t you join me in this journey? What is your deep desire of pursuit? What excuses are you using? What can you do today to take that first small step. Let me support you!!
You are awesome and inspiring – keep the faith! You’re talented and on the right path.