Getting past excuses rooted in fear
Oh, hi friends!
I learned an interesting lesson this weekend.
Imagine (Ron Howard and Brian Grazer’s production company) put out an open call for feature film ideas. They’re partnering with Netflix to find writers, pair them with industry folks, and make movies. (More info here.)
When I saw the call weeks ago, I thought, That’s intriguing...but I don’t have any “lifestyle + competition” ideas.
Of course, I hadn’t tried to think of any.
Then I researched how many people enter these competitions.
I was looking for a number to prove that my chances were slim.
But I brainstormed a bit and came up with one half-idea...then realized you need to submit a feature script sample.
I told myself, Oh, but my one film script is a couple years old and probably not relevant...
Another way out.
And what’s that? You need to submit a 30-second video of you pitching your idea?
But I don’t have my tripod and haven’t washed my hair and the deadline is at midnight...
On and on and on.
Ultimately, I saw all these for what they were: excuses rooted in fear. Fear that my idea wasn’t good enough, fear that my writing sample wasn’t strong enough, fear that it’ll be another no, fear that Ron Howard will think I’m an untalented hack.
But in the end, you know what?
Curiosity conquers fear.
And what if my fears are wrong?
So I pulled together my application this weekend and hit send.
Sometimes you need to stop looking for reasons not to do something — and just do it.
Today’s Prompt
Write down one goal you have for this week.
Now write it down 14 more times.
Essential New York Street Finds
I’ve always loved garage sales and thrift stores. Maybe it’s peeking into other people’s homes and lives, maybe because it feels like finding hidden treasure, or maybe because I love a project (yes, let’s bring this vintage dresser back to life!).
In New York, people leave out tons of stuff on their stoops and curbs, especially the last weekend of the month aka moving day, and that’s why I was delighted when my Aunt Gina sent me these two Instagram accounts — @curbalertnyc and @stoopingnyc — which post photos of street finds.
If you’re fast, you can scoop them up. A beautiful old desk was only a block away yesterday! We got there too late (never mind that I don’t need a desk...) but I’m happy to know it found a new home. Take a peek.
Do you like these daily emails? Please share with a friend!
You can also support my work by pre-ordering my motivational journal Do It For Yourself, coming out in the world on September 8.
Thanks, as always, for reading.
Love, Kara