I seem to be attracting more media attention recently. After my appearance on Culture Matters to discuss all things funny, I have been profiled to appear in Shanghai Quest - although in Chinese the name means “Home in Shanghai”.
According to their web site : Shanghai Quest is a weekly 30-minute reality-style TV program, featuring expats who live in Shanghai - their gains, losses and culture shock insights. The show is fun, vivid and practical. Each episode is comprised of a ten-minute documentary depicting the difficulties and achievements encountered during their Shanghai quest; a studio discussion, who professionally provides insight and suggestions on getting by in Shanghai; and an informative section, where the host gives detailed information on the related topic, such as official websites, addresses and contacts. Audience participation is also included, with answers to e-mails about life in Shanghai - from business procedures to dining.
It’s been an interesting week in terms of adapting to having a video camera popping up in places they don’t normally! During our improv rehearsal, while setting up and delivering my book launch, in the studio, in the buildup to my key note at the 10 year anniversary of Toastmasters China and for our improv show performance.
I have a new found sense of admiration for reality-show participants. It can be really difficult not to play-up to the camera (impossible perhaps), and to get on while ignoring it’s presence. On the whole, I enjoyed it. As a performer, I tend to up my game when the deadline is coming or the spotlights are on. Having a camera and interviewer in your face is certainly a way to get focused, realising that your personal brand image depends on how you look on the final cut.
What gets your focused?
Besides having a camera following you around all the time, what else could get your attention for your most important tasks at hand? What raises your game? If you had to play-back your day, what would you see? An action movie, a horror film or a (mundane) Truman show documentary? Think about tomorrow as though you will be recorded the whole day. How does that make you feel? Think about today, what would you want to add, change or subtract if you did have a camera recording your every move?
With 25% of the year behind you, now is the time to re-focus. Take out your goals and targets and pick one area to focus on for the next week. Have a wonderful week!