BWW Blog: Sarah Osman - Blooming: Looking at Others as Inspiration, Not Competition

"A flower does not think of competing with the flower next to it. It just blooms." ... We are all growing. Everyday and every moment we experience is, in essence, an added petal to who we are. We blossom in hopes of being the best we could be, and beside us are others who we can't help but compare ourselves with.

People are quick to judge, compare, and compete. I personally don't agree with comparing oneself to others, unless it helps you improve. I feel as though people, especially performers, are constantly comparing themselves with others and pulling negativity from doing so. Whether it be comparing performances or progress, I see people quickly judging others; even though we, as artists, should be supporting one another.

As performers, I believe we naturally jump into survival mode. We 'fight' for the audition and see others as competition. But why do we do this? Why do we view others as people to compete with, rather than people to grow with?

I understand that the performing arts field is one in which not everyone can be 'the lead'. But what good is it to be bitter at the girl who got the part you wanted? What good is it to mope around because someone your age is doing more than you are?

My personal philosophy is to see the good, and use it. Instead of being snarky to the person who got the part you wanted, learn from them. Don't be bitter, because all that makes you is bitter. Don't get depressed because someone your age is excelling at what you are working on; use them as inspiration. Use the situation as a driving force.

Look at others as motivation to be better, to do better. Look around the room and realize that everyone else also wants the best for themselves. See your friends and peers excel in something and be proud of them, they are showing you that success is possible.

If your classmate got a good part in a show, good for them! Congratulate them and be genuinely happy for them, as you would want someone to you. Take tips and learn from them. You got the lead? Congratulations! Push yourself to be better and try to be someone's example and inspiration! Stay humble, try to achieve your goals, and help others along the way.

Being involved in the performing arts requires the ability to grow. Without growth we cannot make progress. We have to be able to look at other performers that are doing well and learn from them, as supposed to being jealous of them. Because, after all, we are artists and we need to support each other.

-Sarah Osman

Follow Sarah on Twitter here (@theSarahOsman). Don't forget to like and share!

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