The Little Opportunities: Embracing the "Beneath Me" Mindset

Blog

Dec 13

Illustration: https://dribbble.com/kleinhouse

Turning Small Opportunities into Big Wins

We're diving into a topic that's bound to ruffle a few feathers but will ultimately help you level up your game. We're talking about overcoming the "beneath me" mindset. No, it's not the latest pop psychology term. It's an insidious little mental block that might be sabotaging your chances at growth and success without you even realizing it. Buckle up, buttercup; we're in for a ride.

Say "Yes" to Growth

You might be thinking, "But when do I get to say no to these tiny gigs?" Good question. First, say "yes" more often than you'd like and treat these small opportunities like they're the Met Gala of your career. Build your skills, gain some notoriety, and integrate into your new community. What makes small gigs so valuable? They’re your sandbox, where you get to make mistakes and fine-tune your skills without the glaring eyes of a million Instagram followers watching you fumble.

Consistency Over Glitz

Another critical point: Don’t be a one-hit-wonder. We’re in the era of clout-chasing, where people mistake Instagram likes and TikTok views for actual success. Show your work consistently. It's not glamorous, but it pays dividends. Be the tortoise, not the hare, my friend. Consistency kills, especially when it comes to building credibility and honing your craft.

Projects, Not Pipe Dreams

Stop dreaming and start doing. Seriously, get tangible. Begin that painting series, start that YouTube channel, launch that monthly local exhibit. Whatever it is, put yourself out there. Your first few attempts might resemble a Picasso nightmare, but guess what? Every masterpiece starts as a mess. Opportunities are more likely to show up if they see you putting in the work, not just talking about it at every cocktail party.

Paying Dues: It's a Good Thing

Remember when you were a beginner and everything felt achievable because you were learning and stumbling through the process? Guess what? It’s time to get that beginner mindset back. "Paying dues" isn’t a punishment; it’s an investment. Small projects and gigs are dues. You gain skills, knowledge, and network—all invaluable assets for the price of a little humility.

Relationships Over Resume

And speaking of networking, build relationships, not resumes. Stop worrying about how impressive your bio sounds and start contributing to your community. Attend those indie gallery openings, offer your skills, share your resources. Be genuinely helpful. Your opportunities to shine will expand exponentially when people see you’re in it for the long haul, not just a quick ego boost.

The Art of Authenticity

Alright, now for some snarky wisdom: Stop pretending. Seriously. There’s nothing more cringe-worthy than someone who’s all sizzle and no steak. Own your beginner status or your transitional phase. Be you, flaws and all. Authenticity is like a magnet; the right opportunities and people will find you because they’re attracted to the real deal, not a mirage.

Final Conference Call with Yourself

Here’s the kicker: Reflect on your attitudes towards smaller gigs and lesser-known opportunities. Are you turning your nose up at potential goldmines because they seem "beneath you"? Drop that elitist façade. You’re possibly missing out on some serious growth opportunities. Those "beneath me" gigs? They can teach you, shape you, and launch you if you let them.

Start Small, Think Big

Inspired yet? Good. Go out there and seize those little opportunities with gusto. Say "yes" more, show your work, treat small gigs like headliners, and stay authentic. Above all, keep growing and learning. Trust the process, respect your journey, and remember: every "beneath me" gig is a stepping stone to your big break.

So, what's it gonna be? Keep waiting for that perfectly aligned mega-opportunity to fall into your lap, or start turning those smaller ones into the backbone of your success? I'd go for the latter, and I'll see you on the other side of success, savvy? Now go create something!

mike brennan

Mike Brennan, author of Make Fun a Habit: The Creative PLAYbook for Making Life and Work Fun Again, is not just a Creative Consultant and Communicator; he's a passionate advocate for reigniting the lost art of fun and creativity in our lives. In his book, Make Fun a Habit, Mike takes readers on a captivating journey, drawing from personal experiences of resilience and moments of light in the darkest times. Through this journey, he uncovers the secrets to rediscovering fun, infusing every day with play, and unlocking our innate creative potential.

Mike's expertise extends beyond the pages of his book, as he has been instrumental in helping renowned clients such as Heineken and Chase Bank infuse creativity, innovation, and yes, fun, into their work. His artwork has graced prestigious spaces like the Ronald McDonald House and the I.D.E.A. Museum in Mesa, Arizona. His educational journey includes studying in New York City and graduating from the Fashion Institute of Technology and The School of Visual Arts.

What sets Mike apart is his commitment to helping individuals and organizations harness the transformative power of creativity in their daily lives and businesses. He offers a unique Daily Creative Habit process, honed over a decade of personal practice, to empower individuals and businesses to integrate innovation into their routines. His methods encompass time management, goal-driven creativity, and a sustainable approach to making innovation a seamless part of daily life and work.

In a world where the daily grind often overshadows the pursuit of happiness, Mike stands as a beacon of hope. His message is clear: embrace the adventure that life offers, and discover how incorporating creativity and fun into your routine can lead to a more vibrant, fulfilling existence. Through his words, art, actions, and unwavering dedication to the cause, Mike inspires us all to make fun not just a habit but a way of life.