Write On Wednesday – Your Good Is Good Enough

“I think clever is overrated. I think it’s better to be good than clever.” ~ Lorne Michaels

Trust. I’m the biggest fan of putting your best foot forward. But when you shackle both of your ankles, because you’re afraid to fall flat on your face or step in dog doo, I gotta speak up. 

A friend of mine…Yes, a friend…had the opportunity to land a dream writing position. All this skittish scribe had to do was submit current writing samples to an executive producer IMMEDIATELY. 

And by immediately, I don’t mean two weeks. I mean email it to an overworked/underpaid assistant and have it on a boss’ desk ASAP. 

Ofcourse, this is not unheard of in Hollywood. Opportunity, by its very definition, rarely knocks when you’re ready or even checking for it. Nope. Like rain in Southern California, she shows up if and whenever she damn well pleases.  

So, what are we to do as writers?

Stay ready.

Folks say this all the time, I know. But the longer I’m in this game, the more I realize that staying ready isn’t just about how many scripts you have. It’s also about believing in yourself, your skills, your gift, so that when Opportunity opens a door, you don’t hesitate to walk through it.  

Now, I don’t know about you. But I’m more than a little familiar with hesitation. Best friends with self-doubt and apprehension, hesitation often masquerades as perfection and before you know it, you’ve tethered your own ankles and Opportunity is in the wind.

You see, Fam, it’s not enough to stay ready or even believe you’re ready. We, artistpreneurs, must stop striving for perfection. Number one – It’s unattainable. And number two – You’re not perfect, so your work won’t be either. 

But,  I can tell you this:

You’re good.

You’ve studied, worked, sacrificed, trained and grown in your craft. Stand tall in your experience, your gift, your skill and confidently prepare a fabulous, impromptu meal for Opportunity when she shows up on your doorstep unannounced. 

Because she will. Again. Maybe.

At least, that’s what I told the skittish scribe. My friend, who finally did email “perfect” writing samples post deadline, was so distraught, I’m not sure these final words got through. So, Fam, I offer them to you:

Your good is good enough.

You are good enough.

Now unshackle your ankles and soar. 

Fam, ever experienced perfection holding you back? How did you embrace your good being good enough?

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