Lessons from the Oscars: Turning Obstacles into Opportunities

For as long as I can remember, I have loved watching the Oscars. I enjoy seeing the best of the best being recognized by their peers and I love watching people live their dreams.

I was rooting for my hometown girl and fellow south sider, Jennifer Hudson who was awarded the Best Supporting Actress Oscar for her performance in Dream Girls.

Jennifer is an amazing example of persistence, following your passion and turning obstacles into opportunities.

At the age of 7, Jennifer began singing in her church choir, following in the example of her late grandmother, Julia Kate Hudson, who sang in the choir. With a 5 octave range, Jennifer attributes everything, including her vocal ability to her grandmother who encouraged her to pursue her dreams.

Before Idol, in 2003, Jennifer was signed to a 7 month contract to perform on a Disney cruise playing the role of "Calliope." When that ended, she decided not to renew her contract and instead flew to Atlanta to try out for American Idol. She left a sure thing in order to take a chance at a bigger dream. The prize for the winner of Idol is a record contract.

Jennifer reached 7th out of 70,000 Idol hopefuls. In typical Simon Cowell fashion, he sent her away with the stern words, "You're out of your depth, I don't think you're capable of doing any better." Ouch. However, others such as Barry Manilow and Elton John recognized her amazing abilities. When season 3 of Idol ended, she went on tour with the top 12 finalists, and was grateful for having the opportunity.

For many people, that would be it, that would be enough of an obstacle, their one shot, and the end of their dream.

But not for Jennifer Hudson. For her it would be the beginning.

She did not lose sight of her goals. She said, "God has something in store for me. I don't know where or when but something big is coming."

She went on and continued to pursue her dream of singing and sharing her voice with the world.

She was next chosen from 782 highly talented actors/singers for the role of Effie White in Dreamgirls for which she received the Best Supporting Actress Oscar. Jennifer said that losing on American Idol was a blessing because if she had won, she would have gone down a different path, which would not have allowed for parts such as the one in Dreamgirls.

When Oprah Winfrey watched Jennifer's performance in Dreamgirls, she stood up and said, "Girl, go get your Oscar."

Greatness recognizes Greatness.

Three years ago she was singing on a cruise ship.

She now has a record deal with Clive Davis.

Big Voice. Big Goals. Big Dreams.

The Lesson: When you don't get what you want, it means something bigger and better is right around the corner if you are willing to persist and turn that obstacle into an opportunity.

Keep on keeping on.

Twenty five years old.

First movie role. First nomination. First Oscar.

"Look at what God can do." JH

Imagine what you can do if you apply the same faith and persistence to your goals.

Live Your Dreams