Dropping out of Projects and Commitments

Projects = Commitments = Focus = Time ....then something happens! 

If your anything like me, you commit to as many great projects as time allows.  Even though I have a full time job and I do mostly commercial work, I don't want to lose my "edge", so I fit in film projects whenever I can. I went through something recently that probably applies to most of you, so I thought I would share and welcome your comments and feedback.

In approximately April/May and June of this year I took on a several film projects.  Filming was scheduled to take place in late June, July and August.  Perfect!  Summer is slow, lets do this!

But then in late June and the entire month of July, I went though some serious personal issues.  Heart-breaking, jaw dropping, life-changing stuff.  Ugh.  There was no way I could focus on these projects.  My head and heart weren't in it.  I am better now, but I had to drop out of ALL of the projects filming during that time.  I still did a commercial here and there, but all the film stuff had to go - I needed to focus on the issues at hand and get past them.  We ALL have these unfortunate times in our life, and there are some steps we need to take when they affect our commitments.

1) Prioritize:  Figure out what you can and can't do during this time.  If you have to drop everything, do it.  If there are certain projects that you can keep, keep them.  Only you know what you can handle. Take a couple days if you need it to figure this out, but don't delay too long - people are counting on you!

2) Communicate:  As soon as you know you must back out of your commitment, let the producer know so they can find a replacement.  Let them know the seriousness of the situation.  Be sincere and apologize for the inconvenience, but do NOT under any circumstances just be a no-show!

3) Think:  Are these just everyday issues I am going though?  Have I just had a bad week? Or, am I really in trouble?  Don't back out unless you REALLY have to!

4)  Help:  Production probably has a back up choice, but if not, and you know someone who can fill in, please assist them with this if possible.  Offer to help if you can.

5) Legal:  Did you sign a contract?  If you are under a legal obligation to complete the project?  Do it if there is any way possible.  If the situation is dire enough, and you absolutely can't, read the fine print and then work it out with production as quickly as possible.

No matter what we are going though, we need to remain professional.  When we are emotional, it can be difficult, but it will help you in the long run.  One step at a time and before you know it, you will be physically/emotionally healed again.  Life happens when we are making plans.  Wishing you no major bumps along life's path.

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