{Donna Karan’s Spring 2013 Collection shot by Jamie Beck}
Yesterday I came across an interview with Debbie Millman, host of the acclaimed radio talk show Design Matters- among other things- like writing five books, and heading up the design division at Sterling Brands. You know- the usual wonder woman.
Admittedly I’ve never listened to one of her shows or read one of her books, but I was so struck by this line in her interview- “Do not be afraid to want a lot”- that I immediately subscribed to her podcast, and downloaded a preview of her most recent book on my Kindle.
I do want a lot. I want a lot that I don’t necessarily reveal. It’s mostly fantasies I have in my head like being on television, writing a book, hosting my own podcast someday, or starting some sort of product line. There’s a level of guilt which comes along with those desires, which is why I don’t share them too openly. I mean, saying I want to be on television kind of implies I think I’m good enough to be on television in the first place. So I’m essentially afraid of sounding like I’m full of myself. But I still want those things. I do. Aaaand I think I can do it. I say fantasies, but I assure you- I’ve painted a pretty detailed picture in my head.
Do you ever feel that way? Like you’re afraid to own up to what you really want career wise- even just to say it out loud? I clearly do, but Debbie’s advice brought new purpose to what I want. It not only made my desires feel more acceptable, but made me want to come forward and speak up about them.
I’ll leave you with her full response from the question, “If you could give a piece of advice to a young person starting out, what would you say?”
“Do not be afraid to want a lot.
Things take a long time; practice patience.
Avoid compulsively making things worse.
Finish what you start.
Often people start out by thinking about all the things that they can’t do. Once you take that path, it’s very hard to get off of it. Shoot high and shoot often.”
Ok, off to shoot high!
Fantastic post, Clara. Thanks for your honesty & candor! And, for any day you don’t believe it yourself, let me serve as a reminder… you are incredibly talented and you are SO going to accomplish these goals you set for yourself so keep aiming high, girl!
Oh, I just loved this, Clara! What a happy thing to read first thing in the morning. You’re so talented, and I have no doubt that you can accomplish all those things. One of the most important steps is allowing yourself to dream- it makes the future much more exciting!
Sometimes a reader gets lucky to stumble upon a blog post and it is exactly what they need to hear. I am absolutely afraid to aim high! I need to work on that…
Btw…that dress is just gorgeous! I would love to work harder to get it! =)
Oh, I’m so glad, Chloe! I know… I’m dying for that dress, too!
I feel nervous about or afraid to want a lot so often! In love with this post, and definitely needed it as I’m in the middle of a potentially big career/change/decision. Thanks, Clara!
Thanks for sharing – I was compelled to comment so that you’d know your post resounded with a reader. I feel like I’m at a slightly different stage – big ideas, big desires, and I’m willing to talk about them but not quite ready to act. Soon, but not quite yet. Your post is a good reminder to keep dreaming big!
I’m so glad you commented, Amye Mae- and that the post could provide some inspiration. I hope you’re reasy to act soon!
What an inspiring post, Clara. I like the part about patience – it really is a virtue!
Thank you so much for this post! I recently discovered your blog, and I feel like I’m reading my own words. It’s uncanny really, how much we share the same interests and aspirations. I have been a distant observer of blogs for so long, and just recently started my own. I have some pretty lofty goals as well, and you are a great inspiration! Thank you again!