They Never Stood a Chance Against This Sweetheart
It takes more than talent to make it big, and this 11-year-old’s story holds the clues.
This story was originally published in Wholistique.
This morning, I watched a video of Olivia Lynes, an eleven-year-old, performing the song "Defying Gravity" from the musical Wicked during an audition on Britain’s Got Talent.
Her performance deeply moved me, the audience, and the judges.
Showered with gold confetti after one of the judges pressed the Golden Buzzer, she was automatically advanced to the semi-finals and made it to the finals.
She skyrocketed overnight.
I’m a writer. I want to soar, too. I dream of a moment when a literary review drafts words of high praise, hits the golden Publish button, and releases a cascade of recognition that propels a successful writing career.
The lucky break!
But luck isn’t something that happens randomly without effort. In the words of the Roman philosopher Seneca, luck is what happens when preparation meets opportunity.
I explored Olivia’s story and found 7 key factors that set the stage for her success, and anyone with a burning desire to excel can replicate these factors.
Find passion
You know you’ve found your passion when you’re so inspired you can’t stop thinking about it. It fills your heart with joy, happiness, and satisfaction.
Cultivate talent
You need commitment, practice, consistency, focus, discipline, and dedication to excel in any field. You must experiment, learn, study, and elevate what has already been done and take it in new directions. Keep it familiar yet fresh and singular—true to your vision and unique voice.
Put yourself first
Show up for yourself the way you show up for others. Avoid distractions, and don’t let discretionary demands for your time derail you.
Support
Surround yourself with people who believe in you and have your best interest at heart; people whose support is unwavering through good times and bad and who compel you to believe in yourself and seize opportunities. Focus on their energy and don’t dwell on the negativity of naysayers.
Connection
Find an audience who engages with your work on an emotional level. Stimulate their imagination to create moments of awakening and awe.
Opportunity
Find opportunities creatively. Be confident and know your worth. Develop the courage to present yourself to an audience, and stimulate interest in your talent.
Show up
Don’t take any opportunity for granted. You can only succeed when you show up with your A-game, prepared to meet opportunity when a door opens.
Perform well when it counts.
Final thoughts: The climb is steep, and the progress isn’t linear
The way to success is through a rough, winding trail with steep climbs, sudden drops, loose gravel, and scary ravines.
Humility, endurance, and a sense of humor are your friends. Share with your audience about the time you slid, fell, skinned your knee, got back up, and kept going despite the pain.
Most of all, keep your fire burning by practicing self-care and releasing daily affirmations to manifest the best version of yourself.
You can watch Olivia’s journey to her viral audition here: Olivia Lynes BGT Full Video (YouTube)
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This story was also featured in the Medium publication Wholistique.
I so appreciate this article. Thank you. Keep the faith.