The actor got himself killed in the first episode of the third season of the hit series The Sons of Anarchy. Unlike many actors who get axed from series unexpectedly, Taylor Sheridan provoked his “demise” by asking for more money. The producers balked, and Sheridan walked.
As he told Howard Stern, it may have been one of the best things to happen to him.
Having been told he was “replaceable” as an actor, he decided he needed to go in another direction – writing so he could “tell his own stories.”
And write he did—penning the hit movie Sicario and later co-creating and producing Yellowstone and its franchise spinoffs, as well as other hit series like Landman, Lioness, and The Mayor of Kingstown.
Need vs want
Sheridan’s story reminded me of a story my mother told me about my grandfather seeking work early in his career. When negotiating salary, one employer said, “How much do you need?” Coincidentally, I was asked the same question when I was starting. Hence the reason for Mom’s anecdote.
There is a big difference between “what you need” and “what you want.” I came to discover when I was low-balled with an offer that, due to circumstances (rent, food and car payment), I accepted.
Needless to say, my employment did not last more than a few months, and lucky for me, I landed a better-paying job with salary and benefits. In my mind, I “deserved” more, but I was paid a fair wage, and it was a start in the right direction.
Stand up for yourself.
The point of this story – and Taylor Sheridan’s – is that you need to stand up for yourself. Sometimes, as it did with Sheridan, it may be termination, but doing so is a recognition that you can do better. And if you apply yourself, you can do so.
Today’s job market is frightfully bad for young folks getting out of college – as it was for me, fifty years ago. So you have to believe in yourself. You have to believe that you can find good work for a good wage. Perhaps not immediately, but eventually.
Engage with others
At the same time, you cannot do it alone. You need the help of others, people to open doors for you as well as folks who will give you wise counsel. Your dream job will depend more than a degree; it may require additional training and certifications.
Importantly, it will require “people skills” – the ability to connect with others. So easy to say, but when you are just starting, it can be challenging. It begins with a simple thought – dignity. Treat others as you wish to be treated. If you open with that mindset, you open the door to gaining insights and learning more about yourself and what you can do.
Being curious and courteous are door openers. Begin conversations with the intention of learning, not simply getting. And if you establish a connection, ask for help.
Stories like these are a dime a dozen – as are these suggestions – but sometimes they can be learning lessons that open yourself to what you want to – and have the ability to do.