It’s an important question, and one that I think could be asked more of in the performing arts world. In a competitive, individualized industry, it might even seem a strange thing to ask.
The obvious answer is of course “the world will remember me for my talent, for my successful career, for my fame, for my awards …”
But the question I am really asking is “What did you do to change the world for the better?”
As artistes, performers and creatives, we have the ability to shape the art that the rest of the world experiences. We bear the responsibility - like it or not - of being role models to others, regardless of how many followers on Instagram or Twitter you have. So while it is important to take care of yourself, your family and your career, I believe it’s also important to consider what impact you have - and could have on the world.
Ask those you trust - what message does my work send to the world? Then consider whether that is how you want the world to remember you.
Personally, as I try to build the foundations of a new career, I keep asking myself:
- Is what I am doing coming from a place of lack - meaning am I making up for some deficit, am I trying to prove someone wrong, am I trying to fill a hole left by someone or something?
- If I had the opportunity to speak to children, what would I say that would leave them empowered?
- If I had to walk away from my career tomorrow, could I do it?
At least in my experience, our actions have a far greater reach than we think. People remember things I said to them 10 years ago - when I had long forgotten them. And I received the greatest compliment when a dear friend said to me: “when I get stuck, I ask myself - what would Eu Jin say”.
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My name is Eu Jin. I embarked on a career as a professional actor after 20 years in the corporate world. I am a big advocate of personal growth in the performing arts. I dedicate time and energy in performing arts education, specifically in the arena of practical approaches to inner health because I believe that this lays the groundwork for a sustainable career as an artiste.
If you would like to engage in a conversation about a healthy inner life practice, please leave me a message on the "Contact" page of my website and a way to contact you. Thanks!