Lights, Camera, Life: Embrace the Epic Drama of Your Existence

Lights, Camera, Life: Embrace the Epic Drama of Your Existence

Not many know this, but prior to my 17 years in construction, I embarked on a grandiose quest to become an actor. Instead of taking the easy route and attending acting lessons in London like any sane person, I decided to embark on an adventure worthy of Hollywood itself and hopped on a plane to Los Angeles.

Ah, Hollywood! The land of dreams and broken dreams. I was convinced that Tinseltown would welcome me with open arms, just like it did for Cameron Diaz, and that my delightful Brummy accent would charm casting directors while I sipped overpriced coffee on Melrose Avenue.

But let's face it, I was deluded. Utterly and completely deluded.

Despite my unrealistic expectations, I have to admit that my time in Hollywood wasn't a complete waste. In fact, it provided me with some of the most valuable life lessons I've ever learned. One lesson, in particular, has remained etched in my memory to this day.

A wise coach once told me, "If you want to be a movie star, start acting as if your life is the greatest movie ever made. Wake up every day with a sense of purpose, and let your life become a series of extraordinary stories."

Now, you might be thinking, how on earth does a career in construction resemble the life of a movie star? Well, my friend, let me tell you: I beg to differ.

Sure, I may have failed as an actor, but my time in construction has given me a wealth of life experience. Every day on the job is like a scene from a movie—there's always a setup, conflicts to resolve, and, if we're lucky, a satisfying ending.

Construction sites are teeming with rich characters and interactions that even Hollywood couldn't dream up. Trust me, I've seen things that would make Steven Spielberg raise an eyebrow. There are more storylines in my toolbox than a Hollywood screenwriter could ever dream of.

So, here's a little secret for you: When you start viewing your life as a movie, it's amazing how it can inspire you to take risks and embrace the unknown, just like the characters we adore on the silver screen. You'll begin to see the beauty in failure because, as all good storylines teach us, there can be no resolution without conflict.

On the shittiest and darkest days of my construction career, I've always found solace in muttering to myself, "Don't worry, Shell, this will make for a damn good story one day."

And let me tell you, I've got stories that could rival any Hollywood blockbuster.

So, my friends, I implore you: Go ahead and start living as if your life were a movie. Embrace the chaos, the adventure, and the unexpected plot twists.

And always remember, you are the star of the show!

Lights, camera, action!

With love and laughter, Michelle x

#empoweringwomen #inspringwomen #shewhodareswins