A Pep Talk for Creatives: La La Land

I love this scene in La La Land (really I love the entire movie — the world needs more musicals). The takeaway pep talk from this scene is, as Ryan Gosling’s character Sebastian basically states, don’t be a baby.

I love the fact that at this point in the story, Mia (Emma Stone) is completely and totally ready to give up. She’s “been down that road” and has been rejected time and time again and it hurts. She’s doubting herself. She doesn’t think she’s good enough anymore. I have been there. I have struggled with thoughts of maybe I’m a better reader and idea-coming-upper than I am a writer. Confession. When I watched this scene and Mia says maybe this big dream of hers is actually a pipe dream, something that will never happen to her, I found myself nodding. Agreeing. Knowing exactly where she was coming from.

Pep Talk Number Two

I love that Mia has Sebastian to push her to not give up. Pep talk number two: get you a Sebastian … or a team of Sebastians. I am so blessed to be surrounded by Sebastians in my life. My husband for quite literally telling me it’s stupid when I wanted to give up my dream or when I confessed that maybe I’m not good enough. My mentor for pushing me to try new things—even when I’m convinced I’d never get the gig (and pushing me to reach out to an agent).  

Point of It All

The point is when life puts opportunities in your way, don’t blow them off because you don’t think you’re good enough or you’ll never be picked or fill-in-the-blank. Run after those opportunities. Take chances (make mistakes … but that’s an entirely different show and different lesson).

In short. Go for it. Don’t be a baby.

And if you haven’t already, make sure you watch La La Land.