Marking change
There are certain things that mark a point of change in your life. For me, it used to be music. I would remember what event happened when by remembering what songs were on the radio at the time. Now, as a Dad, the points that mark shifts in my life are usually events that occur in my children's lives. I don't know if that's because I can't remember the last time I heard a song for adults, radio is dead, or because so much of my focus is on my kids. Regardless, it's their lives that now seem to mark mine.
About a week ago, my daughter started kindergarten. It was yet another major shift in our lives and our daily routine. But for the first time in the past five years, this one simple event marked more than one change. For the first time, it marked change not only in our family life, but in my career. It marked a return to my "self" in both signature and acceptance. It marked a change in representation. And, oddly enough, it became the unofficial start of the fall semester of voice-over. Many freelancers experience the slow-downs of late summer. No matter how much you prepare for it, it's a double-edged sword. On one side, it tests your will; your dedication to your work. On the other side, it encourages you, because you know it will only get better once everyone wakes from their summer stupor.
Above all, this moment is a tug of war between the past and the future; pulling you away from the present. I'm all for being in the moment, but there are moments when thinking about the past can give you an appreciation for where you are now. It can also give you hope for where you're headed. Just don't spend too much time there, because there's a lot going on in the now and you might miss it. Here's to a great fall for all freelancers and creatives. 'See you in class. Bring an apple.
