There’s an Oscar for everything
Wednesday 02 March 2011
Well, just in case you haven’t noticed (in which case where have you been? I want to go there too!) It was the Oscars on Sunday and what an anti climax
it was.
I know that as a life coach (and Mr Fix it!) I am supposed to be permanently upbeat and positive, but sometimes it’s just no fun when things go exactly to script. There were no howlers (literally) of speeches, no tripping, no fashion disasters and absolutely no surprises!
Even the gloriously pregnant Natalie Portman herself looked a little awkward as she gave one of the worst performances of her career trying to look surprised by her win. As she took to the stage she reminded me of a kid who’d peaked at the presents under the tree and was now trying to feign surprise and delight on Christmas morning.
In fact the only thing that did surprise me on the night, was just how many Oscars there actually are. Once you get past the big ones, Best Actor, Best Actress, Best Film etc, there’s actually an Oscar for almost everything.
Best Writing (Adapted Screenplay)
Best Writing (Original Screenplay)
Best Live Action Short Film
Best Documentary Feature
Best Documentary (short subject)
And on and on, I’m sure there’s probably even an Oscar for Best Tissue Carrier (in a snivelling role) in there somewhere too.
It’s the night when Hollywood celebrates it’s own, but it did however give me an idea. If there’s an Oscar for everything why can’t we celebrate our own and have an Oscar for ourselves too.
This years Oscar for Best Leading Performer in a mum role goes to YOU,
Best Support in a friendship role goes to ME, and the Oscar for being the biggest pain in the ass source of stress that I’m not going to let bother me anymore, goes to - you get the idea.
I remember being in LA once working for VH1 and buying my new agent one of those really tacky $5 plastic Oscar statues and then having Best Agent engraved on it. It was truly horrible but she was absolutely delighted. Not because she had no taste, quite the opposite. So, sitting on her desk amongst all the substantial trappings of her commercial success sits, this 4-inch high lump of gold painted plastic. Just like with the priceless real thing (which only costs about $400 to make) it’s not about what it’s worth (obviously) it’s what it’s worth to the recipient and the impact it has on their life.
When was the last time you were complimented? Told you were appreciated and valued and that you’re a star in someone’s life? How did it make you feel?
I’m guessing good, right? Even if you did have to think back a bit to find it, I’m guessing that the thought still made you smile?
So how about giving that gift to the real stars in your life? Who are the very best characters? What part do they play?
First thing to do is make a list, not of the people, but of the significant roles in your life. Best friend to have a laugh with, Best Support, Best Tissue Carrier, Biggest Source of Joy.
I’m sure you get the idea, then beside each, write in the name of the winner. Who are the biggest stars in your life? When you have your list, go and tell them that they have won!
They might not have agents or publicist to thank, but I’m sure there will be some tears and snotters just the same, in a good way of course!
But there’s more. Write down the Oscar you’d most like to win next year. Pop it in your purse or bag and keep it as a reminder that the value is not in the object it’s in the impact.

What’s the impact you have on your world..?