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Everyone knew Susan Boyle
was a pathetic loser …
Dear Business-Builder,
A few weeks ago, Susan was alone and lonely. She freely admitted she’d never even been kissed. And at 47, life had nearly passed her by.
One glance at the poor woman and you would have immediately known why.
After all – haven’t our movies and TV taught us that successful people are always good-looking, intelligent, talented and, well … cool?
And haven’t they also taught us that people who look like Susan are dim-witted, ungifted, worthless – and in some cases, even villainous?
Little wonder that, when Susan dared share her dream of singing on stage, most people only snickered at her …
When she said she would audition for the British version of American Idol, the laughing grew louder …
And when Susan waddled onto the stage and told Simon Cowell that her dream was to be a star, the guffaws exploded into a deafening roar.
Because, after all: Everyone knows that singing stars never, ever look like Susan.
If you can watch this video without blubbering like a little girl, better take your pulse – because whether you know it or not, you have passed away.
You are as dead as roadkill and stinking up the place and it would be a great favor to society if somebody just buried you — and the sooner, the better.
But this video should do more than just make you cheer for Susan.
Because if you’ll think about it for a moment, you’ll realize that the rush of emotion you’re feeling right now isn’t really even about Susan.
It’s about YOU. Because like Susan, you also have detractors. And your most damaging critic begins scoffing at you the minute you take the stage every workday morning.
Your critic tells you that you’re not smart enough or talented enough or well-educated enough to deserve success.
Or you’re not the right age … or sex … or color.
Or you come from the wrong country … or ethnic group … or family background.
Or you’re too fat … to thin … or too sickly.
Or you’ve failed too many times in the past to deserve success now.
How do I know? Because I have a critic much like yours:
That still, small voice inside that scoffs at every dream you ever had; that criticizes every plan you make and every word you say or write …
The saboteur who’s constantly telling you that you don’t deserve to have a better life – or to provide greater financial security for the people you love …
The demon who constantly shows you vivid mental images of your past failures even as you’re striving for a future success …
The mental Mephistopheles who urges you to abandon your dream and to join the dull grey masses of cynical losers who spend the rest of their lives blaming the system … or the economy … or other people for their failure.
My dirty little secret …
When someone uses my blog to attack the capitalist system or attempts to elevate himself by disparaging those who have succeeded and become rich, I always try to be polite to them.
Now, I’d never dream of saying this to anyone on the blog that follows my articles — but do you want to know a dirty little secret – what I’m really thinking when those people weigh in?
I’m thinking …
“There goes a bitter, pathetic little loser who is so insecure … so convinced he doesn’t deserve success … so terrified of failure … and so worried that others will realize that he’s a waste of perfectly good oxygen …
“… That he’s attempting to save face by focusing his self-hatred outward: Attacking the system that so clearly exposes his inadequacies, mediocrity and cowardice — and attempting to bring everyone who’s used it to prove him inferior down to his own level.”
I know. Disturbing. But you know what? I’m not the only one who sees things this way. Fact is, the cynical, self-righteous coward isn’t fooling anyone. Not, in his quietest moments I suspect, even himself.
Because, as we all know, you can attempt to glorify spinelessness by dressing it in any political or religious ideology you like; in the end, there is no nobility to be found in it.
Yin and Yang
Despite what many people think, fear and courage are not opposites. In much the same way that the words “success” and “failure” are meaningless without each other, “courage” cannot exist where there is no fear.
As Mark Twain famously said …
“Courage is resistance to fear, mastery of fear - not absence of fear.
“Except a creature be part coward it is not a compliment to say it is brave.”
So, rather than attempting to construct elaborate, obvious ruses or engaging in shameless and transparent public acts of mental masturbation to disguise our fears as “moral superiority” …
Wouldn’t it just be simpler (not to mention more honest and much more rewarding) to exercise a little courage instead?
Johnny Johnson – the legendary founder of Research Publications – used to tell me …
“Doing the right thing always demands more courage than following the crowd.
“Do the right thing, anyway.”
My dad – who, before he became a minister, served as Lead Mechanic at Lockheed, building the legendary P-38 fighter in WWII — used to tell me …
“Aerodynamics experts can prove beyond the shadow of a doubt that the bumble bee’s small wings and bulbous body render it incapable of flying.
“Once launched into the air, any creature so configured will simply crash to the ground and die.”
“The bee, however, is fearless – so it flies anyway.”
And if Susan Boyle were here, she’d probably say …
“Just hitch up your pantyhose, waddle out there on stage, take a deep breath and sing your heart out!”
Your assignment for this week: Name the fear that’s standing between you and the success you dream of – and tell us what you’re going to do this week to beat it!
Yours for Bigger Winners, More Often,
Clayton Makepeace
Publisher & Editor
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67 Comments »
Join the Discussion!
Let us know what you think. Or ask us anything. Or offer your own sage advice.
The only rule: RESPECT THIS HOUSE! Postings that contain abusive language and/or personal attacks will be cheerfully VAPORIZED. One cross word and – POOF! – your well-thought-out post will be gone in a puff of smoke.
– Clayton
Comment by Bob Duke — April 16, 2009 @ 9:07 am
Wonderful words. I just saw Ms. Boyle’s performance earlier this week. I was amazed. I just wish I had not been warned how good she would be.
Your article brought me to tears. I want to be courageous and be successful, so I have a lot to think about.
Thanks,
Bob Duke
Comment by Frank S. — April 16, 2009 @ 9:24 am
Just wanted to express how timely this article is for me. I am challenging myself to venture into a new stage of my life by starting an on line business that deals with mental changes average people could make to conquer bad habits and poor lifestyle choices.
One big problem… I have not yet conquered time and fear of the unknown. I will do so someday soon, I feel it coming. Reading your article helps to re-enforce the attitude needed to get me there.
Each wall placed in front of us takes time to scale and patience is a virtue sometimes tough to master.
The detractors can be difficult to ignore and so can the fear of falling on your face and proving them right.
In the end I know that if I can see my wife through cancer, lose 50+ pounds, quit smoking after 33 years, quit drinking and learn how to get up for 2 jobs and still exercise and care for my family, I will climb this wall as well.
Your wonderful article just added some much needed strength to arms for the climb.
Thanks.
Frank S.
Comment by DK Fynn | More Than "Just A Copywriter" — April 16, 2009 @ 9:48 am
I think my biggest (but most subtle) fear is success itself.
Comment by Dean Kennedy — April 16, 2009 @ 10:29 am
You floored me again. Crikey, what bundles of emotion us human creatures really are. What a stunning performance to watch … more so I even think than the public discovery of Paul Potts. I have blurry eyes looking now at this screen!
I think for me, my fear is about worthiness and value — not valuing myself as much as I deserve, not recognising my ability to soar like an eagle when I set my focus clearly on my goal: I wonder too much if what I really want really is achievable — yet I already know the true answer to that question!
What I’m going to do about it is surround myself with visual reminders both of what I want and the positive mindset that will get me there.
One of my favourite quotes, from the movie Braveheart:
“Every man dies. But not every man really lives.”
There’s no better time than right now to “really live”.
Comment by Caleb Osborne — April 16, 2009 @ 10:33 am
Love that quote about the Bumblebee Clayton — I always remember that when I get down.
My fear is worthiness too — even when I know people as young as me who work as hard (or less hard) than me — it’s still a battle to feel like I deserve and will achieve all the success I want.
My action step? Just keep plowing forward and constantly attack those “inadequate thoughts” when they appear with reason and logic and “if one man can do it, another can also” thinking.
Thanks for this post Clayton — really good!
Later,
Caleb
Comment by Johanna — April 16, 2009 @ 10:35 am
The Bottom Line is crystal clear: persistence, determination, and courage.
I thank you for reminding me that we are more than our fears and that we also should move forward with courage.
Comment by Olive — April 16, 2009 @ 10:39 am
Don’t you just love the expression on Simon’s face when he gets blown away totally unexpectedly?
Another “Potts” and way to go Susan!
There must be somthing in the water in UK that makes folks like these believe in their talent and themselves and so, totally ignoring their detractors, they get out there and show us how really wonderful they are. That singing came from her soul!!!
I’m not scared, I just haven’t properly marketed myself.
Olive
Comment by Denny Koska — April 16, 2009 @ 10:48 am
For sure we all need to stretch more and get out of our comfort/stagnation zones. For me it’s not so much the fear of doing something, it’s trying to figure out what that something is. We are all so busy just staying afloat. Trying to figure out what to invest precious time and resources in is my problem.
Denny
Comment by Marcelino Latorre — April 16, 2009 @ 10:48 am
Thanks for the peace,
No fear, just not enough hours in a day, and a lack of appropriate time management.
You put my ass up against the wall I’m going to fight.
This copyslammer thing is closer than I think, that’s all I keep saying.
Yours In Abundance,
Marcelino Latorre
Comment by Jan Evans — April 16, 2009 @ 10:52 am
Thanks for posting this awe-inspiring video.
Although fear is present to alert us to danger that could maim or kill us, it also transfers to imaginary dangers like rejection or ridicule that might make us take a step back to reconsider our actions.
The best advice I’ve ever heard for overcoming fear of criticism is from Linda Parelli, “What other people think of me is none of my business.”
If we are to progress as humans, we must be prepared to stand out from the crowd. That in itself is a dangerous stance to take because the safest place from predators is in the middle of the herd–not on the fringes.
Perhaps my fear prevents me from dreaming big enough, from following my greatest passion. And if I’m on the wrong road, I’ll never reach my destination…
Comment by eleena — April 16, 2009 @ 10:58 am
I love how Susan Boyle, a very lovely, unassuming, humble lady, has been able to captivate and inspire people the world over just by being herself and persevering and believing in her dream of becoming a professional singer. She’s already a winner in my book. Even if she doesn’t win the grand prize in the British “Who’s Got Talent” contest, she’s already a star with a huge global following and this won’t be the last we see or hear of her, that’s for sure.
Clayton, thanks for connecting the dots and making us see how truly instructive Susan Boyle is for the rest of us. Excellent post.
Comment by Olga M. — April 16, 2009 @ 11:02 am
At 74 my attempt to start an on-line business is ludicrous and a total waste of my tme: So say my family and other detractors. After watching Susan Boyle express her dream I am now unequivocably COMMITTED to mine. Beautiful! Beautiful!
Comment by Gary Gile — April 16, 2009 @ 11:17 am
Clayton, it’s interesting you should write this today. Earlier this morning I watched several of Susan Boyle’s YouTube videos. I then looked for the other singer that touched my heart, yes, Paul Potts.
I sent both YouTube links to some friends with the subject “Never judge a book by its cover”.
We all are geniuses and have immense talents. We just need to let them out.
My assignment: The fear that is keeping me from success - I fear that I will mess up my first impression and my contact will never have the opportunity to really discover how much I will help them.
What I will do to overcome that fear - contact 100 people with the anticipation that I will find one who will look beyond the cover to see the real jewel.
Comment by karen — April 16, 2009 @ 11:31 am
While “Cinderella” stories come in all shapes and sizes, it isn’t often we get to see one taking place in front of our eyes.
And to Olga - Comment #12 - It’s been my experience too - that there’s always more people who try to kill your dream than encourage it, and like Clayton reminds us, they are the ones terrified to do it themselves and find relief in their own failures by trying to squash our dreams. You go girl, follow that dream. You have nothing to lose.
One thought that clicked in my head long ago, was that there is no Prince Charming waiting to fulfill our dreams, only us - and we may have to fight through the obstacles of many, many naysayers to do what we dream, fight we will.
Thanks Clayton
Comment by Richard Armstrong — April 16, 2009 @ 11:32 am
That’s not ugly, Clayton. That’s the way most Brits look. But did you get a load of that blonde judge???
Comment by Jim — April 16, 2009 @ 11:41 am
This was my first chance to see this video that everyone has been talking about. Needless to say, I was as blown away as the judges.
Such a stupendous voice! And from such an unassuming person.
OK, I admit it - watching that video brought a rush of emotion, and yes, it was for the very reasons your article mentioned - because of the pain coming from my own personal demon of fear.
I am starting to think that maybe, just maybe, I too can be more than I have been.
Thank you for making me think about where I am and where I want to go.
Comment by Sam Crozier — April 16, 2009 @ 11:42 am
Well, as someone who’s already had to overcome enormous trials and obstacles in recent years that I may never fully tell anyone about, just to even reach the starting point of my own plan, let alone achieve the goal I’ve set for myself, I can certainly identify with Susan.
And yet the goal is getting closer by the day, that’s for sure.
Sam
PS- Hope you checked out the link I put up about the NI4D (National Initiative for Democracy) on your other post Clayton, I think you would find the concept very promising..
Comment by Clayton Makepeace — April 16, 2009 @ 11:44 am
Whoa. Richard. Brutal.
Better be careful — I’m going to be over there in a few weeks; don’t get me beat up!
Oh — and I never said Susan was “ugly.” That’s a beautiful woman on the inside … and when Simon gets through with her, you can bet she’ll be downright presentable on the outside as well.
And yeah … the blond judge: As my son used to say when he was little, “Hubba hubba!”
Cheers, y’all!
– Clayton
Comment by Jennie Heckel — April 16, 2009 @ 11:47 am
Dear Clayton,
Never thought I would see someone like Susan Boyle here. This deeply touched my heart. Yes I cried too. The video made me believe that again… ANYONE can dream their dream and succeed.
I feel we all have a little of ‘Susan Boyle’ inside us all.
To be a copywriter, to put yourself out their, your heart, your guts on show for everyone to see and critique, even ridicule…takes immense courage.
As a copywriter, there HAS to be a ‘tiger’ or in Clayton’s case maybe a ‘BIG OL’ GRIZZLY BEAR’ that can give us the spark…the fire, AND the courage to put it out there.
To believe.
I have done incredible things in my life.
Generally just because. Just because I wanted to do it, not because I thought I had any REAL talent. Or Money. Or any thought that I was better than anybody else. No, just the opposite.
Because I just wanted to. I am…
A nationally published photographer in the Guinness Book of World Records - for a team of 54 lamas hitched to a covered wagon. (No, I had no formal photography training, just my 35 mm and me.)
That was a lark, I was in a bucket attached to a boom truck 25 feet in the air to get the WHOLE team of lamas in the photo. Only problem was once they got me UP in the bucket they couldn’t figure out how to get me DOWN!
Photo was in the National Enquirer too.
Survived divorce after an 8 year marriage. No kids. We just had horses. But letting my dreams go there hurt almost more than I could take. So I decided to REALLY change my life.
I wanted to believe again.
When I went back to technical school at 37 to totally change my life to become a web designer and build websites…that was my new dream. I told everyone that some day I would be working from home. They all scoffed at me. Said it couldn’t be done, well at least NOT by me.
Never did I really know for sure then, that today I would be writing sales letters on the web. Just like I SAID I would!
Yes. I am living my dream!
I did it. I am working from home. Everyone laughted at me back in 2000 when I graduated from technical school and I said that in a couple years I will be working from home. I just have to learn how to do web design work well enough to have my OWN business.
Well it took more than a couple years. In 2008 I got laid off from a great job, due to downsizing. I got MAD. Told myself I was never going to work for a normal 8 to 5 job/company again. I was going to work for myself.
The litle tigress got out and stayed OUT!
You can be the same. You can do the same. Just like Susan Boyle. She’s got a tiger insider her. She now knows she can do it.
Be careful though…Once you let that ‘little ol’ inner tiger out’ your life will NEVER be the SAME!
It’ll BE BETTER!
Call to all experienced and ‘in the know’ copywriters.
Find the time and the want to inside yourself to help beginning copywriters. Help them to grow their own ‘little tiger’…Your know your ‘tiger is full grown’. Help those little cubs you know. Be a mentor. It’ll make you feel better about yourself than you EVER DREAMED!
Jennie Heckel
Wisconsin Copy Cub
Comment by Dan — April 16, 2009 @ 12:03 pm
My fear stems from the piss poor reputation I built for myself in my early- to mid-twenties. It wasn’t until I started working for myself that I turned that around. I’m not afraid that I haven’t changed or that I still present that type of character. I have a fear that people who were harmed by my actions before I turned myself around will turn up at crucial moments in my current career, and drag the new reputation I’ve built through the mud. I know this fear is imagined, and has no basis in reality.
What I plan to do this week is to take an exercise I recently learned about from Psycho Cybernetics where you determine the absolute worst that can actually happen and visualize yourself creating a positive outcome from it. I’ll draw upon those images whenever I find myself holding back for fear of that imaginary foe.
And I will work to make amends with those people from my past, as I have at every opportunity I’ve had thus far.
Hope that’s not too personal.
Comment by Dan — April 16, 2009 @ 12:09 pm
I need to read this every day when I first wake up in the morning. Thanks Clayton!
Comment by Glen Kohlenberg — April 16, 2009 @ 12:20 pm
Clayton I thought they say that beauty is the eye of the beholder.It’s sad Susan waited so long to show her beauty and her talent.
I guess we all do things different because we are worried what someone else thinks or says.I am being laughed at right now myself because I built a member site before I had any traffic.
It’s not that I didn’t try I just picked the wrong people to help me with it. I honestly believe that getting traffic will be easy once I learn from someone that truely knows how to get traffic.
The hardest part was dealing with cheaters,thieves and lairs.But that’s ok because when starting something new I understand there’s a learning curve.
So my goal is learn the traffic and the conversion game because I can deal with the piles of money someday that will be there.
Thanks Clayton for the lesson!
Glen
Comment by Michael Brock — April 16, 2009 @ 1:37 pm
Hello Clayton,
Thank you very much for the post, the video, and the assignment. Each one is very timely for me right now.
Indeed, I battle myself constantly and, as the old saying goes, I am my own worst enemy (and/or critic). So I am not “successful” at this time and my “dream” is not well defined.
And yet, to see Susan Boyle pursue her dream by attacking her fears with full force in front of a crowd of cynics (cf. skeptics) was deeply moving and extraordinarily inspirational.
As for my biggest fear, I sort of relate to DK Fynn above (Comment #3), who said theirs was a fear of success itself. However, in my case, I would have to say it’s more a fear of the increased responsibilities that come with success, because it all seems so overwhelming when I think about it.
Now, as for what I’m going to do this week to beat it?.. I WILL consciously: pray more; meditate more; apply myself, my knowledge, and my talents more; read more positive and motivational material; and take more responsibility for myself and where I’m at in terms of success.
Thanks again and God bless YOU and YOURS!
Sincerely,
Michael Brock
Comment by Andrew L. Foss — April 16, 2009 @ 2:00 pm
I fear:
Not knowing what to do -
Not having enough time
Being criticized for my ideas.
What I will do:
Start small
and do it anyways - Thsy don’t have to know until I am looking back at them and laughing.
Thanks - I watched the video because I had only seen short clips. Thanks for posting it and making it relevant enough to watch. It was worth it
Andrew Foss
Reading, PA
Pingback by “I Dreamed a Dream” | Copywriter Ray Edwards — April 16, 2009 @ 2:10 pm
[...] I decided I would write a post about the video today, only to find my colleague Clayton Makepeace had beaten me to the punch. Read Clayton Makepeace’s post on Susan Boyle here. [...]
Comment by Bill Murray — April 16, 2009 @ 2:18 pm
When Susan Boyle first stood up she was “plain.” Vin ordinaire, as they say in France. But did anyone notice the TRANSFORMATION that occurred when she began to sing?
Where did that radiance come from? Inside? Inside her or me? Or from someplace numinous and sacred? Choose your psychology/theology. But vin ordinaire was suddenly Dom Perignon ‘88, even to the label on the outside.
We ALL have that kind of potential.
Maybe that’s what brought unexpected tears to my eyes at 7:30 in the morning.
I know what I’m going to do about it. How about You?
Comment by Kammy Thurman — April 16, 2009 @ 2:30 pm
Clayton,
LOVED this video! Thanks for bringing it our attention.
Kammy
Pingback by What fear is standing between you and your dreams? | Creating Comic Success — April 16, 2009 @ 2:44 pm
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Comment by Chris Goegan — April 16, 2009 @ 3:11 pm
Clayton,
Wow. I watched that video with my 7 & 5 year old, with tears filling my eyes. There is something so beautiful about watching someone achieve their dreams that is simply beyond words.
Well done Ms. Boyle. Well done.
Thank you for caring enough to share this Clayton.
Be great eh!
Chris
Comment by VeeJai Dunn — April 16, 2009 @ 3:54 pm
Dear Clayton,
This was truly inspiring! And Susan Boyle is fantastic.
My first fear is that, like Susan Boyle, I don’t look like I imagine the “judges” (potential clients)of my skill would expect me to look. This fear drives me to want to change my name and attempt to get clients who’ve never seen or known me. Unfortunately, every advice I hear on getting clients stresses that one should start locally.
Several joint replacements have given me the opportunity to finally “have a life”, but when I mention to acquaintances that I’m planning to become a Copywriter they just ignore it. The lack of response and curiosity tells me they don’t expect any level of success from me. This has stalled my progress, but it’s not their fault, it’s mine.
This video and your article has shown me that I’m letting these doubters call the shots. . . I simply can’t do that another second. Now it’s coming back to me–the burning desire and unbridled enthusuasm I had when I first learned of the existence of Copywriting as a career and how miraculously ideal a fit it is for me. I have to revive and retain this feeling and keep it front and center! I can do this, now!
It was priceless seeing the look of surprise and amazement on the faces of the judges and audience members when they realized Ms Boyle actually had an amazing talent. . .so motivating to imagine that same look on the faces of those I’ve known who’ve simply considered me pitiful in the past.
Thanks again and God Bless,
VeeJai
Comment by Jackson Bradley — April 16, 2009 @ 4:21 pm
Hi Clayton!
“Vengeance is Mine!” saith the Lord!
Clayton, you were right on the mark, in your introduction to the Susan Boyle story, and yes, it is definitely a tear jerker!
I’m so glad that I do not fall into the class of those who are dead, but they just aren’t stinking yet. Our society has been degrading for so long now, I am wondering when we will become just another third world country. It is no more than just a terrible case of Stinkin’ Thinkin’.
I do have hope as that you can easily see in the way Susan marched out on stage without any sign of fear, full of confidence, and her ability to react in such a positive way.
It is evident to me that Susan does not have any problem with her self image. I also bet she has been kissed by now!!! What a breath of fresh air;-)
Thank you so much, for making my day.
“Shoot for the moon! Even if you miss, you’ll land among the stars!”
Cavett Robert “The Salesman’s Salesman”
Sincerely,
Jack
Comment by Clayton Makepeace — April 16, 2009 @ 4:24 pm
VeeJai: Yes, to me, the shock and awe on the judges’ faces — especially Simon’s — was fantastic.
In my own life, I’ve often found that the greatest pleasure I’ve taken in my my successes was watching my wife’s reaction.
As they say, “Behind every successful man stands an utterly BAFFLED AND AMAZED woman!”
Comment by Steve Newdell — April 16, 2009 @ 5:35 pm
Maya Culpa
I am Culpable. I shall confess my fears.
Clayton Our Friend,
I’m thankful for this beautifully written piece. I wonder if I had a bit of the Peter Pan syndrome. I never quite felt grown up. At age 20 I thought I wasn’t an adult. At age 45 I finally stopped being timid and took on the persona of older nasty men my father knew growing up in the lower East Side of New York City. Tough old birds who wouldn’t hesitate to tell you what they thought of you.
When I was a twenty year old salesman I thought I was too small and youthful looking to be taken seriously. The older men would naturally, I thought, be better salesmen. Then I discovered I was age 45 and I couldn’t be as good in selling as those pretty young women. Any man will stop whatever work he’s doing to pay attention to a glorious looking young woman. And then I was nearly 60 and losing hair and wondered if the tall good-looking young men would naturally be accepted better in sales than me. So, I didn’t grow up in time and when I thought I was grown it was too late for me.
And now I’m starting a new advertising service with (today) $80 in the bank and worries about a job next week. But as John Carlton said, I’ll use a “put a gun to my head” attitude. I have to do this and there’s no other choice. I’ll take courage and just peddle my talent and see if I can come up with a few new clients in a particular niche market.
Actually, this morning I got email saying a book publisher wants to talk with me about writing for him. My first. I said I’d write free and want 2% of the sale price for subscriptions to his newsletter. I only want commissions on sales I’ve made. That got his attention. So did a website I have up with copy I’ve written. So, I’m doing the right thing even thought I’m too green, too young, too old, too short, and completely unknown.
You mentioned Dr. Wayne Dyer in your April 2 post “Billions of Dollars of Marketing Research For Free” — another very useful lesson – thanks again.
It’s too bad you don’t want to go do what he does. Stand in the pulpit. Speak to college students. Tell them to take courage and believe in their ability to make their own future.
I’ve taken several “mind expansion” courses. I still don’t believe I can change my external universe with thought. But I can recognize my mistakes and fears and change my internal universe. So I am. And from there change some of the external.
One way or another, while I’m pushing doors open I’ll leave a note about my work and point the merchant to my website. Cheap advertising dropped into the right hands. I could do worse….
I’m afraid that we all yearn for approval. (Note the word prove within approval.) We want to be proven. We feel we must prove ourselves to others. We want to receive acceptance and approval from others.
So, we can all go to the bar and be foolish and disgusting wastrels and get approval from other profligate wastrels. Or we can go make something happen that none of them can even imagine. Teach something. Help someone. Help a business grow and survive so that family can manage reasonably well through the next 5-years. Then the wastrels can wonder about you just before someone lowers them into the earth and covers them up.
I never got the approval of my family or old high school friends. But I’ve helped a lot of strangers who just love me for what I did for them. So, get approval from someone else, because the jealous will never admit to approval anyway.
The fear that appearance isn’t right or money to make something happen is insufficient is ridiculous. I can tell 200 people what I offer for less than $50.
The most successful writers usually are happiest at home unseen anyway, so what does looks and clothing have to do with their success?
If you’re reading this and have a computer you’re richer than 99% of the world’s people, so put that asset to good use and promote yourself to promote something; because 80% of everything that happens in this economy happens when someone sells something to someone else!
I feared I didn’t have enough, and I just started chipping away at an idea anyway and now it’s starting to turn into a small beginning – the first step in a longer journey.
Once in a while a society that has lost its way comes face to face with civility and culture and they stand up appalled at their ignorance and then cheer.
May Susan Boyle’s voice get her the best opportunity to voice over in the biggest movie of the decade and may every debt and problem vanish into a long dim memory.
Now please excuse me. There seems to be something in my eye.
Steve Newdell www SteveNewdell - com April 16, 2009
Comment by Roger Due — April 16, 2009 @ 5:52 pm
Another software developer referenced Susan Boyle last night and I had no idea what was coming when I played the YouTube video. When she started to sing I had tears streaming down my face. I played it twice. This morning I showed it to my wife. One of my greatest challenges over the last few years has been to change my mindset to understand that it is not too late at 67 to start an Internet business and achieve financial independence.
Comment by Kacy — April 16, 2009 @ 6:49 pm
I would bet Susan Boyle is no longer employed, and can look forward to a comfortable retirement. She didn’t need to discover herself, although her “Mum” pushed her to succeed.
I watched the video 7 times last night and 3 times today. She doesn’t need to win against the other participants. She’s already a winner!
Congratulations Darlin’ from an Expat South of Scotland.
Comment by Tony Schuman — April 16, 2009 @ 6:53 pm
Clayton;
Thank you for your wonderful inspiring column today. I was busy so I waited until late in the afternoon to read it. What a joy to read and to see Susan Boyle’s performance. As I read your post I thought of 3 different people whose wisdom could only add to your eloquence. First, one of my grandfather’s customers,Mark Twain “Always do the right thing; it will gratify a few people and astonish the rest”. Second, Theodore Roosevelt in one of his last speeches at the Sorbonne entitled “Citizenship in a Republic” otherwise known as The Credit Belongs to those who are actually in the arena, who strive valiantly; who know the great enthusiams, the great devotions, and spend themselves in a worthy cause; who at the best, know the triumph of high achievement; and who, at the worst, if they fail, fail while daring greatly, so that their place shall never be with those cold and timid souls who know neither victory nor defeat. Third, Dr. Edward Rozek, my major professor at college. He fled from the Nazis during the war, joined the free Polish Army to fight the Nazis,was captured and escaped to the West. After the war, the British offered him a one way ticket anywhere he wanted in the world. He choose the US because of the opportunity. He worked his way thru Harvard on a dairy farm and gas station for his BA, MA and PhD. He taught comparative governments for 40+ years and was on Reagan’s transition team drafting the plan to defeat the Soviet Union. Unfortunately he passed away a few weeks ago, but Google his name and get ready to be amazed at what he accomplished.
Comment by John — April 16, 2009 @ 7:41 pm
Hello,
A little negativity goes a long way. I’ve been dealing with that shi.** forever.
Today I got something from the Total Package in the mail. . . Breakthrough Advertising.
I love the giants in the Direct Marketing Industry. They lift me up.
Schwartz was a true mad genius. On top of that, I’m finishing up Architecture of Persuasion by Michael Masterson. This guy is a class act. In the book he breaks down “the lead” part of the sales letter so well.
What’s my point?
Fight the negativity by filling your mind with good material.
Keep going forward gang.
Comment by Iain — April 16, 2009 @ 8:00 pm
May I share an observation? Many posts here contain comments along the lines of people being told that something was impossible, don’t even try. Often, one of those negative voices was their own.
I look at it this way: all those people are working on The List Of Things That Cannot be Done - so I don’t need to worry about that job. The other list - The List Of Things That CAN Be Done has nobody working on it. So that is where I need to focus my time. I may not be able to command centre stage at radio City Music Hall, but I can give my presentation at a local Chamber Of Commerce.
You may not be able to achieve your end goal in one attempt - but you sure can take a step closer to it. So take the step. From your new vantage point you will see where the next step is, and from there you will see the next. And that’s all you need to do to achieve your goals, take one step closer each day. No matter how small today’s step is!
Without dreams nothing new would ever be invented. Hold on to your dreams, for they are the seeds of the future. Treasure them, believe in them, act upon them.
What prevents you from achieving everything your heart desires isn’t that you are too old or too young, the wrong gender, nationality, race, creed or religion. It isn’t that you are over qualified or under qualified. It is just that you didn’t follow your dream with confruent action. Decide on some action that CAN be done, and do it. That will take you one step closer to your dream. Now just take the next appropriate action, and keep on doing it.
Take inspiration from Susan Boyle, because what she did was amazing, and reaffirm YOUR goals, then go make them happen.
As that famous software company almost said: “What will you achieve today?”
Comment by Robert Schwarztrauber — April 16, 2009 @ 9:44 pm
Susan Boyle’s magnificent performance was very moving indeed.
And if it wasn’t for your column it might have been
just another occasions to say, “Wow, that was nice. I’m happy for her.”
But you had to go make a lesson out of it. A journey to the depths of our soul. Worse yet…a challenge!
Thank you Clayton! That’s why I come here. You don’t just dole out the advice and leave us to flounder. You consistently prod us to DO SOMETHING with the expert advice you so generously provide.
When I had just completed my first copywriting course you were there to prod me to apply as your copy cub. Scary, but I did it. You challenged me to create a video extolling the virtues of the Total Package. Never did a video before, but I rose up to meet your challenge. Scary too, but it sure feels good to get that first one behind you!
My current procrastination (fear) is to finish writing a book on photography. To beat the fear I’m going to finally finish it this week and publish it as an ebook.
I say that with the same confidence and resolve that Susan Boyle gave us when she said, “I’m going to make that audience rock!”
Susan certainly made the sale on that stage. Which makes it perfect content for a site dedicated to helping all of us make the sale. Thanks Clayton!
Comment by Chris McMorrow — April 16, 2009 @ 10:09 pm
Clayton, you’re a national treasure.
Thank you for sharing this priceless cup of inspiration.
Comment by David O'Neill — April 16, 2009 @ 10:32 pm
Thanks Clayton–Great, inspiring stuff in your article. I know you’ll probably not like the apparent source of this quote, but I think a good catchphrase is … “the only thing we have to fear is fear itself” (Franklin D. Roosevelt).
Yes, as others have said,Susan’s video is very reminiscent of the similarly emotive discovery of Paul POTTS, in front of the same 3 judges on Britain’s Got Talent several years ago.
BTW, the beautiful judge a few of you seem to have noticed is British actress Amanda HOLDEN. We see a lot of British TV down here in Oz, so she’s not unfamiliar!
And here’s one more of my favourite little anecdotes about facing your fears… and identifying the REAL fears.
Many years ago, a great Australian cricketer, Keith MILLER, was asked about the fear and pressure he felt, out in the middle of an international match, facing fast bowlers repeatedly hurling a hard cricket ball at him at over 100mph.
Now, Miller had flown Spitfire fighters for the Australian contingent attached to the British RAF in World War II, so he knew a bit about fear…
I loved his answer, typically laconic, which went something like this:
“Pressure? That’s not pressure. Pressure’s looking back to see a Messerschmidt up your arse”!
Comment by Clayton Makepeace — April 17, 2009 @ 3:26 am
I love these posts — you guys are inspiring ME!
Keep ‘em coming … I’ll add comments on some of your individual thoughts later today.
Including one I think will really help: MY most compelling fears.
Cheers!
– Clayton
Comment by George — April 17, 2009 @ 4:22 am
AN OUNCE OF SELF-BELIEF CAN MAKE YOU 50 YEARS YOUNGER!
Hi there, Clayton,
Susan Boyle has talent in good measure. But she needed acceptance from the public that eluded her, but not anymore.
I saw the replay of her performance on Australia Has Got Talent and seeing it on the bigger TV screen moved me a lot.
It is scepticism that kills one’s creativity. Whether it is self-inflicted or plastered in spadefuls by unhelpful peers and dear ones, the pain that one has to undergo is very real! There is much cruelty and insensible self-destruction that takes place when all avenues are cut off and dysfuntionalism creeps in.
Susan has jumped out of the stranglehold that held her down. Great for her and may we get to see more of her in the future.
One thing she has proved is that everyone needs courage to go out and put out the scorns and barbs.
Maxwell Maltz in PSYCHO CYBERNETICS says that a man who was cursed by a voodoo priest suddenly aged 50 years and suffered untold mental anguish when he found a tissue malformation in his cheek. The man believed that the curse was so powerful that it would kill him. But it required the reassuring words of a psychologist to set that right and he regained his health and mental well-being when it was proved to him that curse was, in fact, nothing but a ruse to frighten him and he was operated on and the tissue removed. With that went out the effects of the curse, too. The man regained his health and life.
So, BELIEF IN ONESELF is the one most important quality that is very much in need.
I find there is plenty of that self-belief in you and all those who write the columns for you. It is, indeed, very refreshing to open your website and be inspired daily.
KEEP UP THE GOOD WORK AND PROVIDE US ALL THE INSPIRATION WE NEED.
George
Comment by SharonB — April 17, 2009 @ 8:17 am
Thanks, Clayton, for the post. The lesson is a very timely one.
My fear is of not being good enough, no matter how good I actually get. It has slowed me down more times than I care to admit. There are plenty of detractors outside, which I usually ignore; but the detractor inside my head is a lot louder.
As one who has faced many challenges, including a disabling auto accident and seven years of being homeless, I take great pride in proving people wrong when they tell me I can’t do something. Proving my inner critic wrong, however—that’s another matter entirely.
My action this week: I will send my sales letter out to 25 prospective clients, whether I feel ready or not. I know I need to just get out there and do it.
My eyes are still damp. But bravo to Susan for teaching a lesson that so many people need to learn. Thank you again.
Comment by Ron Ellis — April 17, 2009 @ 9:03 am
I started not to answer although you were speaking directly to me. I then realize that my answer was for my benefit. There is Susan in me, but unlike her I play it safe!!! and loose.
PS: Not that you need any encouragement from me but your posts have always inspired me, even when I diagreed. In this case a tear or two.
Ron
Comment by Gary Fisher — April 17, 2009 @ 9:40 am
Thank you for that, Clayton.
One dictionary defines “courage” as “a quality of spirit that enables you to face danger or pain without showing fear.” As in your Mark Twain quote, the point is not an absence of fear but the resolve to face it. The word “courage” comes from an old French word for “heart,” and seeing Susan Boyle show the courage to sing her heart out certainly touched a lot of hearts at the show and around the world. We can put our back into something all we want, but if we don’t put our heart into it, we’ll probably wind up with our foot in it.
Another important takeaway from the video, though, comes from the link included there [http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9lp0IWv8QZY] to a 1999 recording of Miss Boyle singing a beautiful version of “Cry Me A River.” Ten years ago she was every bit as good a singer as she is now, yet neither the audience nor the judges on “Britain’s Got Talent” had the faintest clue of what she could do. Susan’s courage shines in her persistence even in the face of at least a decade of being ignored, but, not to be crass, think of the money that could have been made by some record company had *they* possessed the courage and discernment to find and promote her!
Comment by I.A. — April 17, 2009 @ 9:59 am
(1) Current Fear = To be paid what I am worth.
–> Smashing It = I’ve started the process already. Emailed someone who didn’t want to pay my fee AFTER giving him the finished project.
Calling another person at 11 pm, in U.K. who went
“missing” after I created a new squeeze page for him.
(2) Current Fear = Having to live up to the potential I know I have.
–> Smashing It = Putting myself out there by finally attending the next Entrepreneur/Business Meetup session and
being around real producers, top notch people.
Comment by I.A. — April 17, 2009 @ 9:59 am
P.S.: Hope you get my mail soon. It’s a yellow package.
Comment by Kelley Eidem — April 17, 2009 @ 1:15 pm
You nailed it, Clayton when you said the emotio we feel is about ourselves.
Anyone of certain age, which includes me, has suffered and felt squashed at some point. It’s a part of the human condition. Susan Boyle personified that when she said she had never been kissed. He suffering and squashing has probably been life long.
She allows us to see it, and at the same time we see her humanity. I loved how she turned every negative into a positive when she was questioned by Simon. And how she said she was going to rock the audience before she walked out on stage.
When she sang the real Susan came out, and in her now-realized dream we recognized our own dream…our dream to be real and authentic and valuable.
She couldn’t have picked a better song to introduce herself to us and to the world.
My assignment is to believe in myself.
The best to you.
Kelley Eidem
Together we can cure cancer - one person at a time!
Comment by Laura James — April 17, 2009 @ 2:56 pm
I LOVE your article, just love it. This hit the nail on the head. Words cannot describe how appreciative I am of your writing skills, your ability to convey this most important message and I applaud you.
Susan made me feel great. She made millions of people feel great.
The power she has to lift people up is what this world should be about and what I hope to add before I die as best I can.
Love and light, bloody brilliant, and just plain excellence to all with a positive go-getter attitude!
Laura
Comment by Jim — April 17, 2009 @ 3:22 pm
When the dream is big enough, the facts don’t matter.
I’m living proof.
I’m a flatland Florida and I’ve stood on the summit of Alaska’s Mt. McKinley. At 20,320 feet it’s the tallest mountain in North America.
I was 50 years old.
Comment by Cathy Sutter — April 17, 2009 @ 6:44 pm
When I start doubting myself, wondering if I can really pull it off (currently starting a resume service), I read the index card leaning against my monitor…and calm my doubts.
“You are never given a wish without the power to make it come true.” Richard Bach
I have to read it many times during the day.
Now I’ll be thinking about Susan Boyle as I read it. Great article, Clayton!
–Cathy
Comment by Patricia Ogilvie — April 18, 2009 @ 9:44 am
I too was moved to tears, with appreciation, admiration and heart-felt “you go girl!” sentiment that tingled up and down my legs!
Your words of wisdom, Clayton, resonated that yes, indeed, what is reflected from others, demonstrates the feelings we need to deal with, within ourselves.
For me, Susan reflected my own fears of being an underdog, but why?
Because I believed I was.
I believed I was less than others, beneath those who told me so. More importantly, I learned not to ask for the contract, the money, the dream - and you know what else?
Most of the time, I didn’t even know it (90% of our actions are motivated by our subconscious!) “You won’t get it anyway, Patricia! And if you did ask, they’ll screech at you, “how dare you”, hurting your feelings!”
Well you get the drift.
I’m certain Susan Boyle no longer feels like the underdog - at her age, I think she understood there comes a time to step out on that stage and sing for her life.
What a brilliant lesson. Thank you.
Comment by Dan — April 18, 2009 @ 9:51 am
I just shared the Susan Boyle clip with my wife. For some reason, while I was listening to it again, I thought of Video Killed The Radio Star by the Buggles.
http://blip.fm/%7E4j7lh
I started thinking about all the rubenesque women (and men) who labor in obscurity because the image concious MTV culture demands that our singers look like runway models. In that respect, video has at least done a great disservice to the radio star.
For me, Susan Boyle’s performance was so striking because she is going through life inside out. As opposed to myself, and most others, she is outwardly awkward, but apparently her inner self is composed. I attempt to put my best face forward, while secretly being afraid that someone will discover the ruse and expose me for the awkward oddball I fear I am.
Pingback by Carnival Of Healing #185 - It’s all about having courage | Interesting Observations — April 18, 2009 @ 12:05 pm
[...] So how can today’s edition be complete without including that person who has given tears of joy and hope this week to millions? If you are one of the few who has not heard of Susan Boyle this week, you definitely need to watch her in this video and then read Clayton Makepeace’s article What Are You So Afraid Of? [...]
Comment by joni — April 18, 2009 @ 3:37 pm
I saw Susan Doyle on the Tube and was so o o happy for her. Later that night I saw her on the evening news and I excitedly pointed her out to my husband so he put down his newspaper and listened too. How wonderful for her.
Now, what is wrong with me? I am 77 and I have been trying to make a little money on the web because I have spinal stenosis and can do things sitting down better than standing or walking so I was trying to help out our old age pensions a little bit. My husband reasures me that he loves me no matter what and I do not have to stress myself over this, but our pension is very small. Oh sure, we are not starving, but I just figured I spend so much time on the internet I might just as well make it pay, only a little bit, no millions. I have been trying and it just seems like my memory is lacking or I push the wrong buttons or just cannot do the right things to get noticed. I need to be helped all along the way. Right now I am trying to get Bill Cosby’s system working for me and although some people have been successful in only a matter of days, it has been over a week and I have not got it down pat yet. I could not even get on his movie yesterday.
Now I read all those comments about how people are going to just go ahead and conquer their fears, but if the smarts are just not there. - What else can I do? I certainly will not give up. susan didn’t. joni
Comment by joni — April 18, 2009 @ 3:40 pm
I saw Susan Doyle on the Tube and was so o o happy for her. Later that night I saw her on the evening news and I excitedly pointed her out to my husband so he put down his newspaper and listened too. How wonderful for her.
Now, what is wrong with me? I am 77 and I have been trying to make a little money on the web because I have spinal stenosis and can do things sitting down better than standing or walking so I was trying to help out our old age pensions a little bit. My husband reassures me that he loves me no matter what and I do not have to stress myself over this, but our pension is very small. Oh sure, we are not starving, but I just figured I spend so much time on the internet I might just as well make it pay, only a little bit, no millions. I have been trying and it just seems like my memory is lacking or I push the wrong buttons or just cannot do the right things to get noticed. I need to be helped all along the way. Right now I am trying to get Bill Cosby’s system working for me and although some people have been successful in only a matter of days, it has been over a week and I have not got it down pat yet. I could not even get on his movie yesterday.
Now I read all those comments about how people are going to just go ahead and conquer their fears, but if the smarts are just not there. - What else can I do? I certainly will not give up. Susan didn’t. joni
Comment by Coach Ann Corcoran — April 18, 2009 @ 4:53 pm
I saw Susan Boyle’s video a few days ago but, Clayton, your article revved up my own courage to keep going despite my fears of failure. Last fall, I left my lilfelong field of education to become a life and career coach. I’m 59, single, and have never been an entrepreneur before. I love coaching; I was born for this. My coaching clients are thrilled with how their strength and power grows. (I bet Susan Boyle would have started singing much earlier if she’d had a coach!)Still, my own mean, fear-mongering self-critic is always yapping at my heels. The only thing I can do to stop it is to keep taking action.
Your article and the inspiring comments posted revved up my spark and courage! I’m going to print out this whole page so I can see it on my bulletin board every day. My thanks to all.
P.S. Clayton, may I post your article, with the right attribution, on my blog or in my newsletter? I won’t do so without your permission.)
Comment by Malcolm — April 18, 2009 @ 5:50 pm
Susan Boyle has a divine gift, and it’s not just her voice.
And I am not a religious person. Spiritual perhaps, but not religious.
As Dr John Demartini often says, there is a divine order within the Universe. Nothing happens by chance.
Looking at the response on this blog and the 26 million plus comments on YouTube, I believe Susan Boyle was placed on this earth for a very good reason.
To inspire us all to take another look inside ourselves and recognise the possibilities and beauty within.
A heavenly voice with looks that some would call ‘plain’. Much like myself.
This is a divine combination that has inspired many others … 26 million plus to be exact … to say, “You know what ? I can do it too ! ”
That’s no small feat.
We all have our own demons and detractors that limit our experience of life, the aliveness and juice that comes with living boldly …. I’m still working on that one.
Susan Boyle is a gift to many of us that had previously given up or doubted our own potential.
And Clayton, I love to see your humanity when you comment on these topics. Bravo !! Keep it coming !
Malcolm.
Comment by Devin Anderson — April 19, 2009 @ 6:25 am
Thanks, I really needed to hear that today.
Comment by Susan Connors — April 19, 2009 @ 6:59 am
Hi Clayton
Pure magic when I watched this on Sunday morning. I ended up in tears as its exactly what I needed to be reminded of - the intrinsic part of us that is HUMAN!
Its a huge inspiration to me to keep going. Being the only income earner in our home its a huge push on me. That with the business of growing my business - we have all been there and do that daily.
To keep going is so important to not give up.
To simply believe in ourselves and dare to dream is a huge thing to do.
Its gotto be broken into bite size pieces - little snack bits that won’t choke us or become overwhelming.
Living and not existing are my biggest priorities.
For a long time I was fighting like a small dog, to keep its dinosaur leg to chew on. Facing death head on and living through the knowledge that anytime I could lose my husband.
All I can do is be prepared - enjoy life and know that every day is a gift.
To be grateful, have the ability to express and grow, to communicate - to see that despite a persons sarcasm, there is a real HUMAN there.
My biggest thing and I do it daily is to remember this.
It matters not what a person does, the color of the skin, sex, education etc. We all make our own choices which come back on us and help create our reality.
What am I doing this week?
Enjoyng my life! Being grateful for all the good, the bad and ugly that exists.
Today, I went for a drive through majestic mountains here in Australia. Through the rainforest and hinterland areas.
To explore, discover and live. Seeing that again is pure magic. To have my family is pure magic, business an honor and to live and breathe - freedom.
To be happy with me! Lumps, bumps, wrinkles, attitudes, moods, skin - that is a big one. I figure this body is the only one I have and I need to be happy within my own skin.
It doesn’t matter what weight I am, what job I do, what clothes I wear- what counts is how I see myself.
We all have that annoying little monkey that sits on our shoulder and wants to feed us negatives. We need those negatives to be reminded of the good that exists. If we keep feeding the monkey negatives we end up witha fully fledged king kong gorilla which we drag around everyday.
To acknowledge negavity is not natural for us. We are taught to be positive, to be negative is a Bad thing. Hogwash! As you say - negative and positive are needed as are fear and courage.
They balance each other our - action and reaction.
Choices and consequences.
To stick my head out of the shell and say what I think is no easy task.
I am pleased to say my business is picking up and I am learning heaps of valuable info everyday.
Thank you everyone for sharing.
Thank you Clayton for being you.
My grandmother used to tell me that you are unique from the time of conception. God only makes one of you then throws the mold away - even for identical twins
All the best
Susan Connors
Australia
Comment by montana gray — April 19, 2009 @ 11:17 am
Dear Clayton:
I’ve watched Susan Boyle’s recording more than a dozen times,and I still cry.
I’m crying again. Just saw that Alaine Page, Susan’s idol, has said she wants to record with Susan!
Dreams DO come true and Susan reminds me to “stay in the game.” It is NEVER too late.
Thanks again Clayton. As usual, thought provoking and tangible.
Montana
Comment by Michael — April 20, 2009 @ 6:57 pm
Hey Clayton,
Just heard your interview with Rich Schefren
this morning. Now your article. Although I
don’t always agree with your political point of
view - I mostly resonate and agree with everything
else you say and write.
Thanks for all that. I agree that many people
got a surprising look in the mirror when Susan Boyle
sang - that’s each of us in our frightened, private
state. She had the courage to not be held hostage
by trying to “look good”. She was committed to fully
expressing herself, something everyone longs for, with
no concern for the consequence. As long as our
intention is pure and it’s our passion - let it fly.
Comment by Solomon — April 22, 2009 @ 5:23 am
Hi Clayton,
After reading your article and the comments I felt I’m so fortunate and lucky to be alive and read this great piece of article and get be part of.
My journey as a copywriter is one glaring example of my fight against my detractors. Here, I shouldn’t flinch telling you; down here in this part of the world copywriting and english writing as such is a rich man’s prerogative. If you have to step into an ad agency - you’ve to have a good branded clothes, and devil-may-care attitude. which is a farthest thing to me to imagine let alone have an attitude like one.
I faced severe criticism from one and all that I can’t write. I better go to teaching or some other profession.
But I know, I’m for it. I’m for the written word. I felt thwarting these detractors through my writing is the only option left. Hence I persisted. I believed in my limited ability and wanted to have a small set up of myself where I serve clients who need some great work.
It’s God’s blessing that I could read your TOTAL PACKAGE, which otherwise is impossible to buy any advertising book available in the market given my financial conditions.
I didn’t see what Susan Boyle’s singing is. I would see later. I can very well imagine many such bright sparks in our midst who languish in depression, or been supressed by organised or whimsical prejudice of race, colour, prestige … and we need to wake up and help them. If everyone opens up our eyes and ears to see the bright sparks often masked as worthless things… we may’ve many Susan Boyles in this world.
I liked a comment #19 by Jennie Heckel: to nurture young copywriters (similarly other professions artists, actors, singers, scientists, etc etc) by the seasoned pros.
I made a point in my life to lend a kind word of encouragement when someone airs a wish to make big in whatever field - that one can achieve anything one wishes.
Thanks for the inspiration it made me much stronger. I would like to read the article and comments many times over to dispell the gloom around me these days.
Thanks Clyaton, and my friend Daniel Levis who introduced me to TOTAL PACKAGE!
Solomon
Comment by Tammy — May 24, 2009 @ 5:58 am
Needed that one.
Thanks
Pingback by “I Dreamed a Dream” – The Amazing Susan Boyle | The Internet Marketing Spot — August 10, 2009 @ 9:50 am
[...] I decided I would write a post about the video today, only to find my colleague Clayton Makepeace beat me to the punch. Read Clayton Makepeace’s post on Susan Boyle here. [...]
Pingback by “I Dreamed a Dream” – The Amazing Susan Boyle | The Internet Marketing Spot — August 10, 2009 @ 9:50 am
[...] I decided I would write a post about the video today, only to find my colleague Clayton Makepeace beat me to the punch. Read Clayton Makepeace’s post on Susan Boyle here. [...]