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.
February 26th, 2009
You can find career and life guidance anywhere you look as long as you keep your eyes open and your brain on. Here are three lessons I’ve gotten from Top Chef this season:
The Importance of Editing- Jeff is a good cook. Nobody doubts it. And he’s made some good dishes during the season. But the guy doesn’t know how to pare down his many ideas, how to pick one thing and make it a complete dish. More often, he ends up with several disparate and not-that-impressive items on the plate which compete for his attention in the kitchen and the judges’ palates during tasting.
Focus- Personal feelings, whether a grudge held against a seemingly arrogant co-worker, a crush gone out-of-control or something else of that nature, can cloud your judgement and ability to concentrate on the task at hand. The winners in these types of reality competitions, as well as the people who triumph when faced with challenges in real life, are those who can set aside emotional turmoil and hone in on whatever is needed to get the job done. And the lovebirds and others who pay more attention to the other players than their own performance go home early, wondering why they failed to take the prize.
Confidence- On episode 9, Restaurant Wars, two of the contestants, Carla and Stefan, had issues with their desserts due to a malfunctioning freezer. Carla lived with the effects, resulting in an unappetizing sorbet “stew,” while when Stefan, who has been accused by other contestants of being full of himself, realized there was an issue and immediately set about problem-solving. Stefan is so sure of himself, when he is faced with a setback, he has no doubt he can overcome it. And so he does.
What lessons have you gotten from reality TV?
February 5th, 2009
