Another Lesson From Top Chef Season 5

February 26th, 2009

I know, I know. Enough with the Top Chef. But I can’t help it. It’s a microcosm of the business world. People trying to make it, to land on top, to get the big title and the corner office (or restaurant).

The season finale was on last night (SPOILER ALERT).

Carla had been gaining ground the last few episodes, really shining and showing what she could do. But on last night’s episode, she let herself be led out of her sweet spot by another chef. Carla’s insecurity made her doubt her own ideas. She went with dishes that weren’t “her” and… you can guess…

Stefan had been the star all season. It was his to lose, really. And the last few episodes, his confidence got the best of him, especially last night when his performance mattered most. He went with a fancy technique in order to show off, but one which didn’t preserve or enhance the flavor of the food he was cooking, and he settled on a tried and true dessert which the judges felt was tired and not-so-true and… well, you can guess here too.

Which lead Hosea. Hosea knew his strengths, he had confidence but not arrogance, he stayed away from a danger zone (for him, dessert), and he went the distance.

If you haven’t watched the show because you don’t cook or don’t like cooking shows, give it a shot anyway. It’s not about the food. Trust me.

Related posts:

1. 3 Lessons from Top Chef Season 5
2. The Power of Transformation
3. Overcoming The Dip, Illustrated: Denis Leary

Filed under: entertainment industry, mid-career professionals, miscellaneous career advice

Tags: career advice, top chef