Don’t Change Who You Are

One of the most truthful things I have ever heard came from a master speaker, John Childers. He was giving his audience pointers on what it takes to be a fine speaker. He said, “First of all, don’t change who you are.” The who is always more important than the what. I pass on the same thing to you. Don’t change who you are to please anyone or to fit into a mold. Your real self is the core of your power. I am not saying, don’t learn, don’t grow, and don’t refine your gifts, just the opposite. Imitation is a fine way to learn, but you must go beyond that or risk never attaining your own authenticity — you’ll be merely an imitation.

Find out what your strengths are and keep working on those. If you keep struggling with your weaknesses you will end up with very strong weaknesses. Spotlight those strengths. Learn from the best. Create a package that is marketable because it is real and true, not shiny fool’s gold.

Know the difference between fashion and personal style. And above all be congruent. Have the inside and the outside of you harmonize and enhance each other. Learn what you need to present the diamond of yourself in a perfect setting. What cuts need to be made? What needs polishing? What is the best setting and the best light? It takes enormous discipline to be a marketable commodity, and sacrifice. What is your vision? Does it pull you enough to perfect all you are and become the master of yourself?

Learn, learn and then learn some more. Learn to work harder on yourself than you do on your job. Study with the best, but don’t be afraid to make mistakes. Sometimes the bumps in the road jolt us out of our complacency & fear and allow us to discover unexpected pathways to our magnificent selves.

It is not often in life that one is fortunate enough to meet a dynamic individual who can truly be termed “a force of nature”, but Adria Firestone is just that. Well-spoken, multi-talented, and brilliant at communicating with and inspiring an audience, whether the setting be a darkened theatre, a student masterclass, or a professional board room. Her positive attitude and inspiration are infectious. Adria Firestone’s passion and generosity for sharing her skills are a special gift to be experienced by all.
John Hoomes, Artistic Director, Nashville Opera