E
Have you ever experienced disappointment? Ever tried hard to get something but fell short? Even seen the death of a dream?
You’re not alone. If so, you’ve probably had one of three reactions:
- Frustration, blame game, excuses, victim-stance.
- Extra hard work to try again, refusing to accept “no” for an answer.
- Resignation that this may not have been the right thing for me anyway.
All of us have probably encouraged someone in Reaction #1 and been inspired by someone in Reaction #2, but I wonder if Reaction #3 might be the best of all?
American Idol was once the talent well for singers. Carrie Underwood and Kelly Clarkson are alumni. Adam Lambert however was not a winner. Now if you’re not a fan of AI, Adam Lambert was one of the most talented (and flamboyant) contestants ever, but certainly in Season #8. Ironically, he came in as the runner up to a more subdued singer named Kris Allen. Lambert’s performance on the final night was incredible as he sang with Rock superstars KISS and Queen. I couldn’t believe the American public voted for Kris Allen.
Fast forward a couple of years. Lambert has parlayed his second place finish into two successful albums, and a tour singing as the front man for Queen (aptly replacing the late Freddie Mercury). His failure in one area has turned into a massive success away from it.
Kris Allen never did make it big although he was featured in the Ford Focus commercials. Like most Idol alums, his win was indeed the highlight of his career.
Some of you know my original goal in the Navy was to become a Medical Service Corps officer. I took my Masters program only to be competitive as a candidate in this highly sought-after In-service Procurement Program. I selected Organizational Leadership as a graduate program simply because there were no math courses. After failing to be selected after a third attempt, I gave up. What I didn’t know is that I was slowly falling in love with the field of management development as I finished my MA requirements. It became the field that forms the foundation of my business. While I didn’t achieve the original goal, I have something that’s much more satisfying and financially rewarding as well. I would not trade this career for anything and look back on that original dream somewhat humorously now.
Several years ago, Country singer Garth Brooks sang a song thanking God for “unanswered prayers.” If you’re experiencing a letdown professionally or the death of a dream, why not reframe this and see if maybe that’s not the best solution for you anyway? It certainly was the case for Adam Lambert. It worked for me.
What about you?