Do you still allow yourself that joy first experienced as a young teen—falling in love with a song and listening to it non-stop? I hope so!
When that love strikes me these days, I purchase it from iTunes and begin my continuous play.
My latest passion, Shallow from A Star is Born sung by Lady Gaga and Bradley Cooper, just won the Academy Award for Best Original Song. So clearly, I’m not alone in appreciating this powerful song. If you haven’t yet heard it, give it a listen and/or go see the movie!
How would you respond to the narrator’s query in the initial verse?
“Are you happy in this modern world? Or do you need more? Is there something else you’re searching for?”
In the chorus that follows, Lady Gaga and her co-writers capture the emotional resonance of longing for change when it feels possible and yet struggling against self-generated fear. Familiar with that contrasting gulf? You’re very excited about something new until you bump up against all the known and unknown hurdles.
More than a love song!
Yes, Shallow most immediately speaks to relationship depth, but like all well-crafted artistic expressions, you can find layers of meaning and apply what resonates in multiple contexts.
For me, Shallow connects with that deep knowing that there is something for you in the deep end. Even though pursuing it scares you, part of you longs to shout, “I’m off the deep end, watch as I dive in.”
Where are You Diving Deep?
- Where in your life and career are you ready to leave the shallow and dive into the deep end?
- What are you ready to be all in with despite the fear?
- Are you ready to be all in with your research and writing, knowing you’ll stumble, shortfall, and meet rejections along the way?
- What needs to happen for you to know you’re “far from the shallow now”
Lady Gaga Acceptance Speech-Inspiration!
Lady Gaga summed it up beautifully in her acceptance speech for Shallow:
“…it’s not about winning. But what it’s about is not giving up. If you have a dream, fight for it. … it’s not about how many times you get rejected … It’s about how many times you stand up, and are brave, and you keep on going.”
If you’ve been putting off your writing and research, end that neglect today. If you don’t know where to start, commit to taking a small first step. Most importantly look at and acknowledge your fears and doubts. They might have something valuable to offer, but they don’t get to be in charge. Your higher, better self owns that spot.
You can find many practical suggestions for taking a small step elsewhere in the Resource posts.. Step in, believe in yourself and ask for support. Many people are willing if you simply ask and trust in yourself.
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