If you have not watched the video of Susan Boyle From Britain’s Got Talent then take a moment to indulge. There are multiple moments that capture how the judges, audience and we react to what we see with the eye. Then our hearts get pulled as we engage the performance. This lowly lady of a small English village has the real goods. It shines through. There were no gimmicks, only her pure talent.
The funny thing is that we can all watch the video over and over. We can watch the movements. We can try and copy what Susan does on stage. But, could we get the same result, much less the reactions from the audience?
No, we can practice and mimic. However, it would not approach all the intangibles which are innate for Susan. It’s talent.
I see copycats all the time. The people who lack talent but are out there lurching around. When they see something they like, they work hard at technique. It doesn’t work in the long run. Technique alone is void of what is essential that is found in the real thing. It misses on the following:
- The real price. The hard work and deep commitment that talent can be immersed in.
- True understanding. What being the real thing truly means. It is understanding something so thoroughly. This is different from superficial display.
- Connection. People are good at detecting authenticity and counterfeits. Your talent truly connects. Techniques can only get entree.
- Wholeness. You do not have to prove anything with talent. You have it and your work builds on it. People that only have technique have to rely on pillars. It’s not a part of who they are.
Part of the conundrum of the new economy is that your talent is on display to the world. This has a double-edged sword. You gain audience with your fans. However, you get the leeches also.
At the end of the day, it’s not much to worry about. True talent fulfills in a way that has integrity and connects.
If you don’t know your talent, then take a step to figure it out. Then step deeply into your art and mesmerize your audience. It is increasingly the way you will be valued and differentiated in the world today.