Remember To Dream, Vol. 16
"If I'd observed all the rules, I'd never have got anywhere." - Marilyn Monroe
Profiles In Dreaming
Every week, I profile someone that has fulfilled their dream against the odds and highlight three lessons from their journey.
The Blonde Bombshell
Marilyn Monroe may be one of the most misunderstood stars Hollywood has ever seen. Known around the world as the eternal sex symbol, she was more than a pretty face. She took on the big studios at a time when they dominated the movie industry and won. She overcame her critics to earn a Golden Globe. She was an avid reader, with an impressive book collection. Her story is an inspirational example of how you can achieve your dreams even when the whole world underestimates you.
Ponder This
“If you're not in the arena also getting your ass kicked, I'm not interested in your opinion.”
- Brené Brown, bestselling author and researcher.
Practice This
Conduct a Personal SWOT Analysis to help build your confidence.
SWOT analyses have typically been used in the business world to help companies develop strategies. We can use the same tool to develop approaches for navigating life that increase our chances for success.
Conducting a SWOT analysis involves identifying your personal strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats. It’s an exercise that provides you with clarity regarding paths that are well suited to your personal makeup.
Strengths: What do you do better than anyone else? What are your unique advantages?
Weaknesses: What tasks do you avoid? What do others view as your weaknesses? What are your negative work habits or traits that hold you back?
Opportunities: What new technology or skills can you access? Do you have a strong network? What trends exist in your industry? Are there any needs unaddressed by your company or industry?
Threats: What obstacles do you face at work? Who is competing with you? Is your job changing? Are there external factors that could hurt you in the future?
Play This
Every week, I share some of the music I listen to when I write. Studies have shown that playing a song or short playlist on repeat helps put you into a state of flow, which is optimal for creativity. The choice of music is up to you. I choose music that reflects the energy I want to infuse in my work. Most of the time, this means dreamy, melodic deep house. But sometimes, when I’m writing about something raw, I go with old school hip hop.
Here’s a link to a master playlist of all the songs I’ve shared so far.
I’d love to hear your feedback or connect with you. Email me at omar@omarfarha.com.