Life is not easy for any of us. But what of that? We must have perseverance and above all confidence in ourselves. We must believe that we are gifted for something and that this thing, at whatever cost, must be attained. – Marie Curie
 
As we celebrate the release of the new website and a great 2018 for our Leading Light family, what better way to keep our drive flowing than to have the confidence to evaluate ourselves. And I guess it’s me first.
 
As an individual (Bel/Blue/B/Queen B), I’ve always tried to mirror the confidence I’ve seen in those around me. However, as a creative (Belinda Clarke), I’m still struggling to truthfully represent myself through my work – which is what I’ve been striving for since the beginning of my personal journey.
 
Ever since I was a teen, I wanted to be an actress – cheesy but extremely true. I mean, there was that random week when I thought that I wanted to change the world by shaping other people’s minds and becoming a teacher. But let’s face it, for the people who didn’t see it as their future, drama was an opportunity to doss for two hours a week. So I’ve combined the two ideas. I want to change the worlds and shape the futures of like-minded people, people who want to gain the confidence to expose themselves through theatre – just like I do.  And with the help of Leading Light, confidence workshops.
 
In January 2017 we created what has now become my entire life, Leading Light Collective – and what an amazing 18 months it has been. Leading Light has given me the confidence to never shy away from what I want. I have had the most amazing support along the way from fellow actors, mentors, family and many more. As an artistic director, it is an amazing feeling to know you have a strong team behind you (i.e my Hannah Blair).
 
Although the thought that always stops me is the opinion of others. Leading from that a question comes to mind. Is Leading Light my safety net, to gain the confidence to fail but to never fail alone?
 
After various thoughts, conversations and arguments with myself (lol that’s not even a joke), I’ve come to the conclusion that the only approval I need is my own. This level of belief in myself can only make my creations stronger. My fear will get weaker which will make my path stronger. Failure is a stage in life we need to push ourselves forward to achieve our goals. It is much easier said than done, I struggle with this outlook. But I also cling to it.
 
At this point you’re most likely thinking – why did Bel even write this blog if she already knew the answer? But in asking myself these questions, I can only hope that I’ve answered them for other people too.
 
Please enjoy our monthly blogs, we want you to know everything happening in our individual minds and Leading Light journey, so stay tuned!
 
Lots of Love
 
B