There is a great quote attributed to Lewis Carroll, “If you don’t know where you are going, any road will get you there.” And while some dispute that is not exactly what Mr. Carroll said, it’s the spirit of the message I draw to.
Oftentimes in my career I have simply ricocheted. One time I took a job as a Set PA on a home improvement show and had to clean toilets; another time I took several jobs on a true crime show and had nightmares for weeks!
BE CAREFUL WHAT YOU SAY YES TO.
I once heard a fellow producer say, “THAT DOESN’T ALIGN WITH WHO I AM.” SNAP! So that path is the path I am on – saying yes to projects that are aligned with who I am.
If you are also on this path, here is some food for thought for you.
THREE STEPPING-STONE ROLES:
- BE A LOCAL STORYTELLER FOR NEW LOCAL BUSINESSES. You don’t necessarily need to think macro. How about micro? Who do you have in your circle of friends who might need help with their new local business? Consider joining the neighboring city chamber of commerce. They may need help sharing their story.
- BE A STORYTELLER FOR YOUR OWN SHORT DOCUMENTARY STORIES which lead to longform stories… How about you stop working on side projects that aren’t meaningful to you, and carve out some time on your own passion projects? Granted, we aren’t always in a financial position to do that, but when that door opens seize the day!
- OFFER YOUR STORYTELLING SKILLS TO PEOPLE WHO ACTUALLY INSPIRE YOU. If you are going to work for other people, why not hand-pick people who you think are amazing or who you’ve always wanted to work with?
For you and your path, it will require you to literally step out. Be intentional. Be purposeful. Enjoy the journey!