Determination

Every morning I wake up and list the things that I have to do or complete by the end of the day. From homework, to rehearsals, to emptying the dishwasher! I’ll admit that I find it incredibly difficult to get up and out of bed; physically and mentally. But I tell myself to get a grip and to just get on with the day. One thing you should know about me is that I love writing lists because let’s be honest, nothing beats the satisfaction of crossing things off one! I write down everything I need or want to do and I’m determined to cross off all the chores / tasks by the end of the day. If I don’t, I feel as if I’ve failed and I’m then very disappointed in myself.

One thing that keeps me going in life is thinking about the future. My dream is to one day end up on the West End / Broadway stage, but unfortunately that doesn’t come for free. The industry that I’ve chosen to be a part of is very competitive and for me to be able to stand out I need to work extra hard by studying for the grades I need, turn up to every dance lesson and musical rehearsal and of course to practice whenever I have a free hour or two. Knowing that I need to accomplish all of the above to be at least acknowledged in the world of musical theatre makes me want to do these things. Above my bedroom mirror I have the words, “Hard work + determination = West End” and this helps me to remind myself why I’m actually getting up. I’m 17 so legally I don’t have to be in school, but it was my decision to stay and to get the grades I need to be able to pursue my dream and reach my goal.

I’m scared mainly of three things; drowning, not being able to have children and failure. Three very serious and deep things I know, but it wouldn’t be realistic if your fears included losing a teddy bear or missing the school bus every morning. I’m a workaholic and therefore need to be doing something all the time, whether it’s homework, socialising (I hate my own company) or my personal favourite, cleaning / tidying my room. I’m a serious OCD freak when it comes to my personal belongings – my friends always tease me by moving everything around when I’m not looking!

If I don’t make it to the West End or the world of acting, I can’t think of anything else I would be able to do. It’s been my biggest dream since I was thirteen years old and thinking about the fact that it’s possible that I might not make it determines me to work even harder. I just hope that one day all my work will finally pay off.

“Failure keeps you humble, success keeps you glowing, but only faith and determination keeps you going.”