Some people says it's good to fail. But try it. Fail. It doesn't feel good. In fact, it's one of the most painful feelings.
Recently, I did a reading that didn't go as well as I wanted it to. I missed the mark, in my own eyes. For days, I couldn't see this failure as anything more than embarrassing. So, how can this failure be good for me, I wondered.
When I analyzed what had happened, I realized that the reason I didn't perform as well as I wanted to was because I didn't invoke my inner Diva. For example, when we were rehearsing, it was very rushed and because I wanted to be "easy and nice," I didn't take the time I needed to make sure my set up -- the location of the microphone and so on -- worked for me. I probably needed five extra minutes but I didn't ask for it. My attitude instead was: No worries. I can make anything work.
While it's true, that yes, I can make almost anything work, my inner Diva does that work that way. She wants to excel and to excel, she needs things just so. And sometimes it takes a few more minutes to make things right. Reviewing exactly what my Diva needed, this is my list of how to invoke her. Use it if it helps you take care of your own inner Diva:
- Feed your Diva. I didn't eat enough before I left for the gig thinking I would find "something" to eat at the event. My diva doesn't eat "just anything." She needs food that fuels her and isn't too heavy or sweet. If underfed, she cannot do her best. Next time, I will eat a full meal at home and take snacks and drinks she thrives on.
- Don't rush Diva. That day, I didn't leave enough time to get to the venue without cursing traffic and frantically searching for parking. This is no way for Diva to travel. Leave early. Arrive with a strong calm.
- Don't expect Diva to be "easy." Her priority is to be great. During the rehearsal, which was rushed for reasons that weren't in my control, I didn't give Diva the time she needed. Being great sometimes takes a few more minutes. And when Diva's great, the audience benefits too.
So, without the above, I failed. Something that my audience may not have even noticed.
Was it good to fail? No, it was awful. But I learned how important it is to nurture and protect my inner Diva. When she shows up, well-fed and comfortable, she can take the house down.
What can you do this week to feed your inner Diva? Don't confuse her with a narcissist. She's anything but. She shows up when you need to be your best and all she may demand is the right food and enough time.
La chanteuse verte, by Edgar Degas, 1884, pastel on paper, 45.7 x 58.4 cm.