We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Austin Younger . We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Austin below.
Hi Austin, thank you so much for opening up with us about some important, but sometimes personal topics. One that really matters to us is overcoming Imposter Syndrome because we’ve seen how so many people are held back in life because of this and so we’d really appreciate hearing about how you overcame Imposter Syndrome.
To be completely honest, it’s an ongoing struggle, one that I might never fully overcome. But it helps when you realize that I’m not alone in the world. I’m not failing just because I don’t have my dream job yet; that doesn’t mean that I’m not still working towards my goal. It’s very weird telling someone that I’m a director or producer when my main source of income is coming from a grocery store. It’s difficult to not feel like a fraud, but I am still directing despite needing another source of income. I’m not going to show up on the set of a music video and introduce myself as a cashier, the crew would probably be quite confused as to why I’m there directing them.
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 an independent creator: directing, producing, and editing music videos and other short-form content. After struggling to find opportunities in the film industry, I began taking it upon myself to direct and produce self-funded projects. I taught myself how to edit by watching countless YouTube tutorials. Then, I started volunteering to make videos for independent musicians who were willing to let me experiment with their music and create something with it. Now, I am continuing to make videos with hopes of expanding the scale of my productions and building a community of like-minded individuals.
If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?
Three qualities that have helped me on my journey so far are, perseverance, curiosity, and optimism.
Perseverance: There are going to be so many points in life when the easiest route is to pack up and go home. I have encountered so many setbacks in my journey so far, but each one has taught me a lesson. There’s always growth from disappointments, and I take those as fuel to improve myself.
Curiosity: Being open and receptive allows me to learn, find new sources of inspiration, and develop new skills. I’ve always been a naturally curious person. When that curiosity is focused on film, it leads me to do some pretty deep dives into directors, cinematographers, screenwriters, actors, etc. from all around the world. My ever-expanding physical media collection is proof of that (haha). I want to show up on set and know a little bit of everything, even if I never do that job.
Optimism: I don’t have many answers about the future, but I do have faith in my ability to be the best version of myself that I can be. I think that showing up every day with a positive attitude is important. Just like it’s okay to fail, it’s okay to believe in yourself. And even if tomorrow sucks, hopefully, the day after is much better.
How can folks who want to work with you connect?
As an independent creative, I’m always open to collaboration and eager to connect with others. Being a part of a supportive community where everyone can uplift and promote each others’ successes is essential to me. I’m excited about any opportunities to forge new connections and gain fresh experiences, contributing to something greater all together.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://linktr.ee/austin21ry
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/austin21ry/
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/austin-younger-54899a20b/
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@austinyounger9582/videos
