This powerful quote from director, producer, and editor Steven Soderbergh makes me stop and reflect on my own journey in business and life.
Back in the days when I worked in the film industry, it was more than just a job; it was an adventure, a symphony of creativity and collaboration that I absolutely loved. Despite the long hours and challenging tasks at times—both mentally and physically—the film industry captured my heart. The camaraderie on set, and the dedication to turning dreams into reality, made every moment worth it. I fell in love with the process of storytelling through the lens.
Many well-meaning friends and relatives didn’t get “it.” I would often hear questions like, "When will you find a real job?" (as if working in film wasn’t a “real” job), or they dismissed my passion as a fleeting phase that I would eventually grow out of.
Truth be told, had SAG not gone on strike during my tenure in film, and a cameraman hadn’t asked me to play golf during our “downtime” (Thanks, Kenny Lane), there’s a good chance I’d still be working in film. Regrets? None. I’m one of those blessed individuals who left one career I loved and fell into another one that I equally loved: the golf industry.
For me, the answer wasn’t found in the question, “Why do this?” For me, much like Soderbergh, I found the real answer in the question, “Why wouldn't I?” The answer revealed my true passion.
How about you? What is your answer to the question, 'Why wouldn’t I?' Because the answer to that question is where the passion … YOUR PASSION … is found. And where the world needs you to be.
Share your experiences! What's a “Why wouldn't you?” moment or experience that transformed your path? ⛳🎥
DO THIS NOW:
Reflect on Your "Why Wouldn't I?" Moments: Take some time to reflect on moments in your life where you felt a strong pull towards something, despite external doubts or societal expectations. Identify instances where you followed your passion without hesitation. Write these down and use them as a guide for understanding your true calling.
Start a Project: Consider starting a project that aligns with your deepest interests. It could be a blog, a podcast, an art project, or any creative endeavor. Use this project as a platform to express your unique voice and connect with like-minded individuals who share your passions.
Encourage Others to Find Their "Why Wouldn't I?" Moments: Be a source of inspiration for others by sharing your story and encouraging them to explore their own "Why wouldn't I?" moments. Foster a culture of authenticity and passion within your social circles and workplace. Your openness may inspire others to pursue their true calling and create a ripple effect of positive change.
Embrace Unconventional Paths: Acknowledge that the journey towards your passion may not follow a traditional or expected route. Embrace the uniqueness of your path, understanding that it's okay to deviate from societal norms. Release the need for external validation and focus on internal fulfillment as you navigate the uncharted territory of your true passion.
Cultivate Inner Strength Through Self-Discovery: Invest time in self-discovery to understand your values, strengths, and motivations. Cultivate inner strength by aligning your choices with your authentic self. As you delve into self-awareness, you'll build a solid foundation that empowers you to confidently pursue your passion. Use this internal strength as a compass to guide your decisions and overcome any challenges that may arise on your journey.