I recently watched a movie about the Italian singer, Andrea Bocelli. There is a defining scene where an opera critic tells Bocelli he doesn’t have a voice for opera. Bocelli vows never to sing again. A friend convinces Bocelli to work with an operatic voice coach and not give up. Bocelli went on to become one of the world’s most renowned tenors.
Imagine if Bocelli had just listened to that one critic.
Photo of Andrea Bocelli at the Hollywood Walk of Fame by Angela George, CC BY-SA 3.0,
When the actor, Sidney Poitier auditioned for a role early in his career, he was told to “stop wasting people’s time and go out and become a dishwasher or something.” Fortunately, Poitier listened to his heart and not the casting director. He became one of the most respected actors of his generation.
Imagine if he’d given up?
Sidney Poitier photo: United States Department of the Interior National Park Service
In 1984 I was hell-bent on leaving Atlanta to pursue a public relations career in Manhattan. My agency in Atlanta had been acquired, and it seemed logical to apply for a transfer to the company’s New York offices. After undergoing a round of interviews, I was rejected. The evaluation read, “Too flaky. Not New York material.”
Imagine if I had taken that rejection to heart?
Fearless girls
Life is full of naysayers and critics who can tamper with your confidence. My advice to anyone is: believe in yourself; sharpen your skills; thicken your skin; turn a deaf ear to naysayers and take on a supportive mentor and surround yourself with people who are convinced your are amazing.
My response to anyone who says, “You don’t have the talent” is this, “Maybe you just don’t have the right taste.” Sing louder.
