We were lucky to catch up with Eden Hadad recently and have shared our conversation below.
Eden, so great to be with you and I think a lot of folks are going to benefit from hearing your story and lessons and wisdom. Imposter Syndrome is something that we know how words to describe, but it’s something that has held people back forever and so we’re really interested to hear about your story and how you overcame imposter syndrome.
There’s a line in The Usual Suspects, written by the amazing Christopher McQuarrie: ‘The greatest trick the Devil ever pulled was convincing the world he didn’t exist.’ It’s gotta be the most memorable line of the whole film, at least for me.
When I first started my career as a storyteller, I wasn’t aware of imposter syndrome. However, as I improved, it became more significant in my creative process. Sometimes it feels as colossal as Godzilla, and other times it’s as small as a peanut, but it’s always there. In my opinion, knowing about imposter syndrome now is even worse than when you’re unaware of having it because it keeps you on your toes. As I’m answering your questions with my feet on the desk, it’s important to note that great stories are never written in ease but rather when the writer is on the edge, pushing towards something original.
So, the Devil does exist. He resides inside my brain every time I write a funny line or an engaging scene. I’ve become accustomed to it, and I’ll forever be an imposter. Fortunately, I’ll also forever be myself, and that’s what often helps me live with this syndrome.
Thanks for sharing that. So, before we get any further into our conversation, can you tell our readers a bit about yourself and what you’re working on?
I’m always writing. I can promise you that. Just recently, I’ve written the feature script of my short film, The Disposers. It’s quite exciting. There’s a bunch of really cool stuff that is happening with this project now, but perhaps needless to say, I can’t share anything about it at the moment. Apart from that, I’m working on a couple more projects, and hopefully, I will be able to share more soon.
But the biggest thing that is happening with me these days is that I’ve moved back to my home country after almost seven years in the States. It’s kind of weird, like being an immigrant all over again, only this time you have some ‘inside information’ about the new joint… But it’s great because, first, I’m seeing my family way, way more. And also, I’m meeting new folks, something that I always love because new folks lead to new possibilities and sometimes even adventures. So all in all, not exactly cruising, but for now, enjoying the ride!
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?
First, step out of your comfort zone. It’ll be horrendous, don’t get me wrong. But with the ability to laugh it off, you can reach some amazing places. Just take that first step – reach out to that person, text that number, do that thing. I know you don’t want to, but getting out of your comfort zone will take you to new places that, in a short time, will become your new and much better comfort zone.
Value yourself, please. Do that. You’re so worthwhile; it’s crazy. It’s easy to forget sometimes with all the hustle and bustle. But you possess your own superpowers. I know it sounds like a saying you can buy at Barnes & Noble, but it’s 100% true. Once you value yourself, those who need you will value you too. They are just as insecure as you are about yourself, so help them remember or educate them – you fucking rule and you’re totally worth it.
Balance it all with fun stuff. I can’t tell you how much I enjoy the moment my son comes back from preschool. From that time until he goes to bed, I’m having the time of my life playing with him, making food, or whatever we do that day. And when he goes to bed, if you have to work, work, but also make sure to spend time with your loved ones or just play a video game, or do whatever you need to do so you can enjoy it too. Because if it’s all about work, well, that’s not healthy for you or anyone.
How would you spend the next decade if you somehow knew that it was your last?
Like I said, Immigration 2.0. Going back after so long, you start to remember what you already forgot. You’re this Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde, and it’s all so weird. The time gap between the US and Israel is bonkers. So keeping in touch with all your friends is, in a way, more work (but totally worth it).
It’s only been a few months since I’ve been back, and I’m so grateful, don’t get me wrong. But it’s hard. I can’t wait for the time when I’ll look back and laugh it off. But for now, I’m just racing to reach my new standard of normal
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Image Credits
Miri Orenstein
