#1 Set goals
If you don't know where you're going, how do you know when you've arrived? Whatever you want to do in this life, it's going to take some planning, both short-term and long-range. Sit down today and think of something you want to accomplish. Then set up at least three smaller goals you know you're going to need to achieve to reach that larger goal.If you're in the film industry, I'm sure goal is to make a film, whether you're in front of or behind the camera. Smaller goals may be to get an audition, get financing, or any other number of things.
#2 Plan your work
My dad's favorite phrase is "plan your work and work your plan." That list of goals you just wrote? I hope you still have that in front of you, because now you have to figure out how you're going to achieve those. For each goal, write out what you need to achieve that. It may seem daunting. If you have a lofty goal (which is awesome) it's gonna take a lot to get there. Just break it down into achievable, actionable items that you can do each week to work toward your goal.As an example from the film industry, I'm currently in preproduction on my next feature. You better believe I'm planning my work! I have spreadsheets galore to track all of my activities that need to happen - casting, financing, hiring crew.
#3 Look to others in your industry
As I said at the beginning, there are certain industry-specific tips that are going to help you reach your goal. Learn by looking to others within your industry. Today, think of someone who has the success that you are looking to obtain. Learn about what they did to get where they are in life. What did they study in school? Did they follow a specific path? Life's too short to make all your own mistakes, so look to others and learn from theirs!In film, it's easy to look at the big stars as a standard for success. However, there are plenty of people achieving success in the independent film world. It may make better sense to use them as a benchmark!
#4 Network
People buy from people they like; they work with people they like; they recommend people they like. Networking can take a lot of time and effort, but in this world, things get done based on relationships. You have to go out and meet people at industry events or even just at a friend's party. The more you talk about what you do, or would like to do, the more people you'll have the chance to meet with the similar interests.This can also tie-in to the previous point about looking to others in your industry. The more you network with people who are doing what you want to do, the easier it will be for you to achieve your goal. Most people are happy to share their knowledge. Ask questions and then listen to their answers. Today, look to see if there are any networking opportunities in the coming weeks for you to attend.
For you film people in Chicago, there is nearly always a screening going on somewhere. Networking can be the easiest one on your list, but don't get tied up in just going to event after event if that's going to stop you from doing the real work of achieving your goal.
#5 Help someone
All of these goals seem very self-serving and focused on your self. While you do have to build your own career, you do not exist in a vacuum. If you're in a position to help somebody else, then why not do it? This goes back to building a network and also being the kind of person people want to work with in the future. This is not to say that the only time you should help someone is if you see a way that they could repay you. But being a helpful person has a way of coming back to you. Today, look for an opportunity where you can help someone.Again, film people, there is always a film going on somewhere. Try to help out on the set if you can. You'll meet people and learn a lot about your craft.
So, what are you going to do today?
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