entertainment industry coach question 273:Do you have any good news for us in this bad economy?

Yes, the good news is that you're sticking with your entertainment industry career (otherwise you wouldn't be writing to me) and that means that you know what you are truly passionate about. This IS good news. I've met many people over the course of my life who feel they have no idea what they are "meant to be doing." I always wondered "is it better to have no clue what to do with your life or to have a dream that may never come true?"

The answer to that is for you to decide. I will tell you, I've answered it for myself. It's my dreams, the big picture that keep me inspired and motivated everyday. It's what keeps me in class even though I have my own business. It's what always pulls me out of a funk, no matter how long I'm in it (and the funks do get shorter and shorter as you develop the skills to stay focused on the possibility of your dreams).

People who don't have that dream spend years, sometimes a lifetime, in frustration. Not knowing your purpose can be truly traumatic. So to answer your question again, the good news is you will always have your dreams to return to, no matter the state of the industry or the economy. Passion is not to be underestimated!

For more tips and articles by top entertainment industry career coach, The Greenlight Coach, visit www.theGreenlightCoachBlog.com

Question 178: How do I figure out if I should pursue a career in entertainment?

Research, research, research! Millions of people have dreams of making it in the entertainment industry. The majority will never do more than dream. Like in every industry, there are pros and cons to the entertainment industry.

Here are some tips:

1. Write down what you want to do in the industry AND the expectations of what you think you'll be doing in that job.

2. Write down your expectations of what it will be like to work in entertainment; the time frame until you're working steadily, the hours worked, the pay scale, and everything else you imagine a career in entertainment to be.

3. Go on entertainment industry forums and get people's feedback on your expectations.

Now, people may be brutal if your expectations are completely unreasonable, but don't be discouraged. If you truly want to pursue your dream, get lots of opinions on others' experiences working in the business. If you are still discouraged, contact me, and we can discuss your particular situation. Remember, sometimes people have their own agenda for discouraging you. I will always encourage you, I'll be realistic and honest in an encouraging way.

For more tips and articles by top entertainment industry career coach, the Greenlight Coach, visit www.thegreenlightcoachblog.com

Question 9: How do I know when it's time to give up on my dream?

Oh, this question kills me!  It breaks my heart.  As someone who has been in this business for 18 years, I've struggled with it myself.  As a coach, I've had this conversation with countless people. I'm telling you this so that you know you're not alone.  I can't tell you when it's time.  You have to decide.  What I can tell you is what I ask myself and my clients:

1. Is pursuing your dream causing you more pain than pleasure?

2. Is there something else you can do that would give you just as much fulfillment?

3. Can you do something else to get you back on your feet financially and emotionally, while still pursuing your dream?

4. Would treating your dream as a hobby fulfill you because you're still being an artist/craftsman, and there's no pressure to make money at it?

5. Do you remember why you wanted to pursue your dream in the first place and do you still feel that way?

Also, remember that no decision is permanent.  Should you decide to take another path and find yourself longing for your passion, you can always come back.  I've left the business twice to pursue other careers and as Michael Corleone said, "Just when I thought I was out... they pull me back in."

Now, I am a Career Coach for Entertainment Industry Professionals AND I continue to pursue my dreams in the industry, as well.  If you need further individual guidance on this issue, contact me at www.TheGreenlightCoach.com  

For more tips and articles by the Greenlight Coach, visit www.TheGreenlightCoachBlog.com