As we mature (a favorite euphemism of mine), we consider what could have happened if we had taken another road or course of action in many of life’s decisions. Life presents us daily with a countless number of choices and alternatives. Some of these choices are small, while others can be life-changing. Sometimes, decision-making can become easier as we become familiar with our resources and what makes us tick. No matter the season, it’s all about managing what I call the “What Ifs.”
One Of My What Ifs
If you’ve been reading my blogs, you know that last January, I got extremely sick three days before traveling to what I believed would be a fabulous winter vacation. I had been planning my vacation for more than six months. During the months prior, I would think of my upcoming trip each time I had to press my way through a complex challenge or difficult task. The mere thought of my winter escape would make me smile as hope entered my heart. But just days before my travel, I was exposed to too much cold air in my lungs while outside and became ill.
For weeks after, I wondered, what If I had not spent that ill-fated time outside in the cold? What if I boarded that Boeing jet bound for my vacation spot and snowy mountains of fun? Perhaps, had I taken better care of myself, I would have made my trip with little or no complications. Regrettably, one poor choice caused my illness, the subsequent loss of my journey, and my time away.
You, too, probably have several stories of poor choices or making the wrong decision and simply not knowing it. Entertainers and talents are always looking to meet the right people and make the right connections to become successful personally and professionally. But our choices, even those made with good intentions, have consequences. Our job is to review the outcome and plan for celebration or recovery.
“If all of our sins, bad habits, and poor choices were permanently inked into our skin like tattoos, we would all dress quite modestly.” Richelle E. Goodrich, Slaying Dragons
Always Time for A Change
As voiceover talents, we have to make choices that affect our careers. Decisions related to marketing to potential clients, hiring help, working overtime, setting rates, and updating demos are just a few of our recurring choices. As we grow in our understanding of the business and the changing environments we all face, we have to be ready to pivot—sometimes at a moment’s notice.
It’s fine to reflect on our past and what has worked and what has not. However, too much reflection on past failures can also skew our view of the future. See What Ifs as training grounds for your current and future choices. Make time to consider how to make better future decisions in your business and life. One of the most significant benefits as human beings is our ability to adapt and make changes.
What Ifs In Voiceover
In the voiceover world, the what-ifs can be endless, which is a good thing. There are so many resources available such as coaches, podcasts, classes, and training to help any hardworking voice talent make wise choices. While managing the What-Ifs in voiceacting is no magic bullet for success, it can help make for softer landings from failure and shorter leaps to victory.
The What Ifs To Come
As you might surmise, I’m a little more careful playing in cold weather, and I always purchase trip insurance. While I had insurance, my lost trip experience taught me that having a good policy can really help with the unforeseen circumstances that come from the unexpected. Stuff happens, so when it does, work it out.
It’s your time now to manage your season of What-Ifs. Don’t let your past or missed opportunities keep you from pushing toward your best life. Life happens, so manage it (keep buying insurance) and #breakthatlip.
