Don’t Be A Debbie Downer
Pessimism is an easy thing to take up. It trumps chances of disappointment, it allows people to not set their expectations too high. It keeps us safe from the dangers of risk-taking, which can sometimes be a good thing. Just ask Debbie Downer, here.
Unlike Debbie, when I first dreamed of becoming a journalist, I didn’t latch on to any thoughts of not achieving it. Fast forward to two years post-grad and I’m finding more people who have lost that child-like naiveté, awakened by the harsh realities of the field.
To curb those moments where I feel like the obstacles are insurmountable, I do these things (after rocking back and forth in a fetal position):
Remind myself why I want to become a journalist. Simple enough but sometimes the reminder helps with morale. I even interview myself. “So, what about journalism excites you?” “What do you plan to do through being a journalist?”
Hone my skills. I find trainings and workshops to attend to also place myself around like-minded people. I blog and actively search for freelancing opportunities.
Networking. Everyone, including those who have managed to carve an existence into the field, has fallen into the pessimistic trap at some point. The sharing of stories can help put things into perspective and create relationships that can open doors. I have joined the Society of Professional Journalists, the National Association of Black Journalists, and there are others such as Association of Women Journalists.
Reading and staying up on news and current events. You can’t conquer your opponent if you don’t know anything about them.
Are you in the same predicament? What ways are you striving for that seemingly unreachable dream?