By Cheryl Mattox Berry
Talent-driven shows, such as American Idol, X-Factor and So You Think You Can Dance, are big hits with TV audiences. Even if you’re not a fan, you’re drawn into conversations about last night’s performances at lunch or waiting for the bus.
While it’s normal to admire the gifts of others and, yes, even envy their fame and fortune when they make it big, have you taken the time to find out what unique talent you possess? Each of us is born with a gift. Sometimes, the gift is unwrapped early, and other times it’s not revealed until later in life. It’s never too early to discover the talent that lies within.
If you’re not sure what your gift is, sit still and quiet for a minute, and think about the things that you like doing. What are you passionate about? Is it sketching, video games, writing, styling clothes, graphic design, building robots, inventing thingamajigs or baking?
If you can’t come up with an answer, ask your parents, siblings or friends. Sometimes, we’re not aware of how well we do things until someone points it out. That’s because the thing that we’re good at comes naturally. It’s a gift.
After you have identified your gift, figure out ways to take it from okay to great. For example, if you like drawing, get some formal training by taking an art class. Don’t stop with just one class; learn about art history and other aspects of the craft. Seek advice from experts and have them critique your work. Next, share your gift by organizing an art show or submitting your best pieces for community art shows.
It’s common for childhood interests to evolve into full-fledge careers. When I was in middle school, I loved writing book reports and photography. I spent hours in the library researching the topic, drew characters on the cover page and wrote short reports on related subjects that I discovered in my research. My book reports were longer than the other students, and I always got an “A” because of the extra effort.
My English teacher knew I loved writing, so I was chosen to attend a journalism seminar along with a few other students. We decided to start a school newspaper after attending the workshop. I was in my element asking questions, voicing my opinion and designing pages. We didn’t publish very many issues, but I enjoyed the experience.
At the time, I didn’t know that I was laying the groundwork for a career in journalism. I was simply doing what I liked, and one thing led to another and another. I honed my writing skills in high school, where I wrote speeches and scripts for programs.
Most schools offer a variety of classes and clubs that allow you to explore your interests. Do you take advantage of them or do the same things with your friends, day in and day out? This herd mentality doesn’t allow for individuality or creativity. Don’t be afraid to break from the pack and do your own thing. There’s no telling where it might lead.