It’s not the talented that make it.
I took Drama in high school, and remember hearing this statement back then, and I didn’t believe it. Not for a second. But I remember and ponder it. I was surrounded by talented kids. I took drama because those were my peeps, but I did not have a successful high school acting career. I think I was an extra in one play, and that was because they needed someone quick, because the play was about to run. I think I attended two rehearsals, had one line, and forgot to say my line during one show because I was too engrossed in watching the play even though I was in costume and on stage. It was a wonderful career.
One of my great friends from high school has followed her acting and singing dreams, and has a successful career in NYC. I visited her recently and she was recognized and lauded for her work at more than one venue we visited. I always thought this kind of talent is the only kind that makes it.
But I heard the statement again today when I was watching Dani Shapiro’s interview on Marie Forleo’s show. Shapiro teaches a writing course and said, “many of her most talented students aren’t writing anymore.” And suddenly I got it. It’s not just talent that matters. It is also grit. It is perseverance, developing a thick skin, or as Elizabeth Gilbert says, be willing to eat a shit sandwich.
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