It’s awards season again…we’ve just seen the Golden Globes in all of it’s glory.
Everything sparkled.
Including the smiles on the stars’ faces.
And it got me thinking – what’s behind that smile?
Having watched (and read about) the story of Amy Winehouse, and of course, coached plenty more in the spotlight – I know that a smile can sometimes hide a fair bit of pain, fear, and …misery.
And that’s OK, as long as there is someone there to notice, and help you do something about it.
Amy was honest enough about how she was feeling, she said things like:
Hadn’t thought about being famous, I just wanted to sing
and
what am I supposed to do in this space?
and
...if I could give it back (my voice) – just to walk down the street without hassle. I would.
Wealth is no substitute for freedom.
She was surrounded by an entourage of people. But lonely.
She was constantly reminded that she had to perform, even when she clearly wasn’t up to it.
There’s a fine line between just getting on with it because it goes with the territory – and – truly being on the edge.
The few people who did notice, tried, but were seemingly powerless to help.
And we all know how that story ended.
So here’s a reminder for stars/celebrities and people who are moving into the spotlight:
You DO need someone supporting you – not just your ‘career’.
You DO need someone to say STOP.
You DO need someone to hold you up.
You DO need someone to remind you , that it’s OK to be – just you.
There IS somewhere to hide. But it’s not a place, it’s way better. You can take it with you wherever you go.
It’s a way of handling life in the Spotlight – and making sure your smiles only have good stuff behind them.
I’ll tell you more about that, soon.
(If you just. can’t. wait. – check out my messages on facebook and twitter – links above).
Amana,
Straightforward, straight talking