Entertain the Thought

We all have those people in our lives, some might call them dramatic, that always seem to have the most interesting ways of presenting themselves and their lives. I'm not describing the types of "drama queens" that we are all aware of...the ones that can be annoying and seem to blow things out of proportion to draw attention only to themselves. I am actually talking about those people that realize their competency to add entertainment value to every day situations.

I fully advocate individuals that realize that being dramatic and entertaining is one of their strengths. As long as a person is being themselves, I see no problem with their utilization of drama. In fact, I LOVE IT! Try as we might not to like them, we all have those people in our lives that seem to charm us through their drama. You know the ones I'm talking about...those people who walk in the room and suddenly it's brighter, more lively. Those that seem to attract the attention of everyone in the room, regardless of what they are doing.

One reason I advocate drama is because it counteracts some of life's most boring moments. For example, I have given zillions (over-dramatic) of presentations throughout my college career, but one way I keep from being boring and ordinary is to incorporate my entertainment value. I think it is very unusual, and very powerful, to find a person that can entertain and inform.

Drama is also extremely effective when it is used in the right context. It should never be used to draw attention to oneself. Trust me, you'll get more positive attention if you just act like yourself and save the drama for later. However, if drama is used for the benefit of others, it's amazing. It can benefit others in so many ways. Maybe you are just brightening someone's day and trying to make it less boring. Maybe you are using drama on a much larger scale, like Patch Adams did when he dressed as a clown to do his rounds as a medical doctor for children with cancer.

No matter what the extent of your dramatic experience there are a couple of rules to keep in mind. Never, under any circumstances, should you upstage another person. If it is their moment, let them have it...you'll have your turn to shine. Second, one must know their audience...it may not be appropriate to be as dramatic at someone else's party as it is when you are on the phone with a friend. A little brain work is all it takes to figure this out! Be strategic about the use of your drama and it could very well be an untapped asset.

Now, the show must go on, so go out there and break a leg!

XOXO,
E