Celebration, No Breathing!

Hello, hello!

Guess what? I did it!—I finished writing my very first feature film! And that’s not all—I also completed another pilot episode!

This week is full of deadlines, and I’m proud to say that I’ve checked off two out of four so far. The surge of energy I feel right now is indescribable. After not having slept a proper night’s sleep in over a week, it’s all been worth it. 

The minute I typed those final words, “THE END,” on my feature script, I immediately submitted it, closed my laptop, and succumbed to a blissful slumber for 18 full-fat hours. (see what I did there? see?) It was pure euphoria.

At that moment, I couldn’t fathom ever wanting to write another thing again, AT LEAST not for another week. However, reality quickly set in—I still have a pilot due on the 15th (which I also finished, yay!), a short film on the 16th, and a TV treatment on the 19th. The false dream of never writing anything again would have to wait.

But, you know what? I’m not here to complain. After a long period of not having enough projects to dive into, I’ve come to appreciate the blessing of having four demanding ones all at once. So, after waking up from my extended sleep, I laid in bed for another hour, hesitant to jump right into another project.

Then, a simple yet powerful quote came to mind: “Just do it.”

😉

I also realized that I often scare myself with tasks that are much smaller and simpler than they appear. My pilot only required a few edits here and there. So why was I making such a big deal out of it in my head?

That got me thinking—how often do we scare ourselves away from assignments, projects, outings, conversations, and even relationships? How much time do we waste overthinking and analyzing, only to find ourselves paralyzed and unable to take action?

Today’s topic: Analysis Paralysis

When we find ourselves excessively overthinking, scrutinizing every detail and hesitating to take action, we allow ourselves to be trapped in the cycle of detrimental consequences. It begins hindering progress, stifling creativity and preventing us from experiencing things we once wanted bad enough for us to find ourselves yet again in the grip of paralysis. 

After I finished editing my Pilot, I decided to take a look at the other projects I still need to complete and define what they require clearly. I also began breaking them down into smaller, manageable tasks. This provides me with direction, enabling me to focus on taking concrete steps toward the finishing line instead of lying in bed overwhelming my mind like it needs it. 

I also started reminding myself of how lucky I am to be in this situation right now. I actively reminded myself of a time last year when I felt so empty and unproductive. (two of the worst feelings for me, personally).

We, as fragile human beings, tend to take things for granted once we acquire them, even after we spend hours, days and nights praying for them. We feel so disgustingly entitled to them that we forget how bad we want them. It’s crucial to continually remind ourselves of those times. 

Paralysis by analysis is a common obstacle that many of us face at various points in our lives, it is normal. However, if we train our brain to catch itself in this terrible habit, we can slowly but indefinitely break it free. Remember, the path to success is paved with courage, resilience and a willingness for trial and error. 

Now, it’s time for me to get back to work. I’m now ready to face them head-on, armed with the knowledge that I am capable of so much more than I often give myself credit for.

Here’s to conquering our fears, seizing opportunities, and always, always, practicing gratitude!

XOXO

FFB