Monday, October 2, 2017

Reality Television That Touches Hearts And Teaches Toughness

I've been doing a lot of reading and writing lately but that doesn't mean I don't watch TV. However, I will say that I don't watch that often. But when I do, I really have to enjoy the show. This post is coming after the first week of new Fall programming when two of my favorite reality shows have just aired.


The Voice on NBC is truly one of the most inspiring, emotion provoking, talent-driven shows in all of television history. And although I'm not really one for reality television, especially not talent related competitions, this is a program worth watching.

For those of you who do not watch the show, the basic concept behind The Voice is that, at the very beginning, every contestant gets a blind audition for four celebrity coaches whose backs are to them initially. Each artist has the opportunity to sing a portion of a song and the coaches can "turn" around if they want the singer on their team. If more than one coach turns for a singer, the tables are turned in that that person has the opportunity to choose their coach instead.

It doesn't matter what your height, weight, race, color, religion, sexual preference, taste in music, or other abilities. It matters what your voice sounds like. It is the fairest, truest selection process of any game show ever.



Then there's the Shark Tank, another reality television show that really captured my attention from the first season it aired. The tank is a collective of former entrepreneurs now millionaires / billionaires  (aka the "sharks") who look to invest in the next big thing. Inventors, service providers, creators, and thinkers seek out a financial investor, confidant, and advisor to bring their dreams and hard work to fruition.

The entrepreneurs pitch their invention, service, and business to the "sharks" for the possibility of making a financial deal and in most cases, to work together. The negotiations range anywhere from easy and quick to fierce and competitive. But all in all, the show really sheds light on the difficulties of being a business.

Although these 2 shows couldn't be more different, what they have in common are the biggest draw. The Voice and Shark Tank are about the underdog, the hard workers, the dreamers. It's about people who struggle on a regular basis but find the will power to continue. And they all reach their goals in some way, shape, or form. Not everyone gets in The Voice gets selected for a team to be coached towards stardom. Not everyone in the Tank gets a deal. But they all made it that far which is an achievement in itself.

It takes courage to put yourself out there. It takes practice to vocalize your feelings. It takes sleepless nights to get an idea off the ground. And all of these contestants and entrepreneurs pound the pavement to get to their promised land. When the coaches hear a phenomenal voice, they let it be known to the world. If the sharks see a fantastic product, they jump on board. They all provide constructive feedback when necessary, and the words of encouragement always find a ear to fill. Either way, good or bad, there are emotions involved. Tears of joy or frustration overcome the struggling artists or startups. And those feelings somehow permeate the television screen, and I feel it too.

I think part of the reason I relate to these singers and startup business people is that I'm always looking for a breakthrough. I'm searching for that idea that will help me stand out. My mind is on a mission to put me on the map, to be a household name. I find inspiration from the singers. I know I need mental toughness like the entrepreneurs. I need the drive like they all have. And I have to follow a dream and do whatever it takes to achieve it. In many ways, the story of The Alchemist lives in all of these people. And I hope that one day I will realize my Personal Legend. (678)

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