Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Tara Danielle Dervin. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.
Tara Danielle, first a big thank you for taking the time to share your thoughts and insights with us today. I’m sure many of our readers will benefit from your wisdom, and one of the areas where we think your insight might be most helpful is related to imposter syndrome. Imposter syndrome is holding so many people back from reaching their true and highest potential and so we’d love to hear about your journey and how you overcame imposter syndrome.
I don’t know that I have completely, to be honest. I think every person on this planet has days when they feel on top of the world, as well as nights when they wonder what their purpose is. I definitely have those times. I heard someone once say not just to “fake it til you make it,” but “FACE it til you make it.” I found that to be earth shatteringly beautiful. So I suppose to answer your question, I will say I just keep facing it each day as confidently as I can. I say affirmations to myself in the morning. I pray with gratitude as soon as I wake up. I try to surround myself with environments and people who lift me up and see my light, as I do for them. I just keep going even through the ups and downs. Even on the days when the imposter syndrome pops up like a little monster, trying to creep in and make you feel unworthy or incapable-just shake it off, hold your head high, and remind yourself you’re unstoppable. Remind yourself that no one is better than anyone else. I just started to tell people I was a producer and they believed me…
Appreciate the insights and wisdom. Before we dig deeper and ask you about the skills that matter and more, maybe you can tell our readers about yourself?
I am me…what do I do? I mean…I do my best….I am a producer, writer, director, artist, activist, host, student, teacher, actress, entrepreneur, volunteer, person, woman, friend, and on and on. I always struggle with these questions. I cannot be defined, can you?
Unapologetically undefined.
Recently I have been working with New York based retired fashion designer Robert Mannino on a film about his life, entitled, “DISPLAY” (let us know if you’d like to see the pitch!). I am beyond inspired by Robert and his one-of-a-kind autobiographical story. This project is sure to be a hit, as it tells the global message of turning pain and shame into power. How even the darkest parts of ourselves we are afraid to share, which lie beneath the glossy finish of Hollywood shimmers or a perfectly tied bowtie in a family photo-this is where the magic of truth lies. Robert reveals shocking secrets never before known which shaped him into the warrior he is now. RAW, REAL, and RIVETING.
And his brave storytelling gives others permission to be their truest selves too. BRAVO! I cannot wait to see this come to life.
Additionally, I am collaborating with Debra De Liso on her upcoming Indie Feature, entitled, “SMALL TOWN” which focuses on two opposing communities who loathe one another, yet ultimately learn to coexist and love prevails. Art imitates life. Continually impressed by Debra and her team who are doing the hard work that will undoubtedly make a difference in opening up minds and hearts to realize how interconnected we all are in a universal human experience. I believe this film holds power toward impacting unity and love in the real world…helping us to release hatred and judgment for those different from us and believe in a brighter future. I can’t imagine a more meaningful goal.
I always aim to work on projects and with people I believe in.
My own projects in the works right now include a documentary on inner peace..I don’t know if the world is ready..and Healing Hollywood..which I may have to add on now Healing the world. I believe we all need collective healing and togetherness now more than ever. It’s my dream to have a show about this. If you’re interested, have your people call my people…(I’m my own agent so….call me dahling)!
There is so much advice out there about all the different skills and qualities folks need to develop in order to succeed in today’s highly competitive environment and often it can feel overwhelming. So, if we had to break it down to just the three that matter most, which three skills or qualities would you focus on?
Still working on each of these every day:
Self discipline: saying no to temporary joy for the success in the greater outcome.
Self respect: saying no to anyone or anything that does not align with who you are and where you’re going.
Self love: When we love ourselves more, it helps us to love others and accept love. World peace starts with peace in each of our hearts.
Okay, so before we go we always love to ask if you are looking for folks to partner or collaborate with?
Yes-I am always looking for likeminded people who have a vision of helping the world. I would love to interview as many people as possible to share their stories. It’s my dream to produce as many inspirational stories as possible to help others. Helping others to share their stories either literally or through various artistic mediums.
