When I worked in funds management, I was a guest panellist on live television. It was a memorable moment for me – not because of the experience itself, but what happened after.
Entering the studio for the live session was everything you would expect. The bright lights, the buzz of activity, the careful coordination of people behind-the-scenes. There was a great energy to the room, and when you go live to thousands the excitement builds. You share some banter with the host, hope you make some engaging points, and end the session on a high as you’re thanked by the producer who shows you to the exit.
And then suddenly you’re standing outside the television studio. Alone. In the dark.
There’s no one around, except for a solitary cab in the cab-rank with the vacant light on.
You’ve just appeared in front of thousands of people. But there’s no fanfare. No applause. Just a reception of one, who’s tasked with driving you home, unaware and ambivalent to what just happened.
While live TV was a natural high, I appreciated the humbling journey home much more.
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