Source: ScreenCraft
Quinta Brunson, the creative force behind the hit show "Abbott Elementary", has been basking in the spotlight, collecting accolades like Emmys, a Golden Globe, and even a Peabody Award. But for the 35-year-old comedy star, none of it comes as a surprise. In fact, Brunson says her success is the result of intentional planning and hard work.
In a recent appearance on "Good Hang with Amy Poehler", Brunson reflected on her journey. If she could speak to her 2014 self, Brunson believes her younger self would respond with a confident "Exactly. Period." when presented with her achievements today. "I was a very determined, knew-where-I-was-going girl," she shared, emphasizing that her success was not a fluke but rather the product of deliberate choices.
Unlike many who attribute their success to chance, Brunson openly rejects the idea of luck playing a major role. "I made every single move in my life so that this could happen to me," she declared, expressing her belief in setting clear goals and pursuing them with intention.
Brunson’s journey began long before the success of "Abbott Elementary." Originally from Philadelphia, she worked at an Apple Store, meticulously saving money to fund her move to Los Angeles. Once there, she leveraged her creativity to make viral comedic videos, which eventually led to a job at BuzzFeed. This transition marked the start of her career in entertainment, where her unique approach to storytelling caught the industry’s attention.
Brunson’s mindset aligns with advice from experts in achieving success. In 2019, Tara Swart, a neuroscientist and executive coach, told CNBC Make It that having a clear vision can rewire the brain to recognize and seize opportunities. She recommends using tools like vision boards to help visualize goals, which can reduce stress and make it easier to take calculated risks.
Swart explained that visualizing success can decrease the physiological fear response, making people more likely to collaborate, embrace new opportunities, and take action. By imagining what life could look like once goals are achieved, individuals are better prepared to capitalize on possibilities that arise.
For Brunson, her strategy was more than just daydreaming. She consciously mapped out her journey, focused on honing her skills, and surrounded herself with environments where she could thrive creatively. "2014 me didn’t exactly know [all of this would happen], but that’s the beauty of vision," Brunson said, emphasizing how her intentionality played a significant role.
When discussing the success of her show, Brunson is quick to dismiss the idea of luck. "I don’t call myself lucky because I think about all the things that go into it," she noted, emphasizing that creating a hit show requires more than just talent—it demands strategy and adaptability.
The success of "Abbott Elementary" didn’t just happen overnight. Brunson carefully crafted her show to resonate with audiences, blending humor, relatability, and social commentary. Acknowledging that success in today’s entertainment landscape involves multiple factors, Brunson's approach reflects a deep understanding of her craft and her audience.
Brunson’s story is a powerful reminder that success is often the result of purposeful decisions rather than random chance. Her belief in having a vision and working diligently to bring it to life serves as an inspiration for those pursuing their own dreams.
By combining her natural talent with a disciplined mindset, Brunson has not only created a beloved TV show but has also set a standard for what it means to be strategic and resilient in the entertainment industry. As "Abbott Elementary" continues to earn praise, Brunson’s journey stands as a testament to the power of vision, hard work, and persistence.