Joy starring Jennifer Lawrence and Bradley Cooper is a must-see film for every entrepreneur or anyone with an ambitious soul. I don’t want to giveaway the film’s plot. If you’re familiar with Joy Mangano, the genius behind the “Miracle Mop”, then you know it was an uphill battle to building her dynasty. The film outlined the wins and losses of her becoming a notable inventor.
Before the fame and riches, there was Peggy….Joy’s dead weight of a half-sister.
Throughout the film, Joy’s pretentious, self-absorbed half-sister Peggy became the film’s greatest villain outside of the big boys who tried to shit her out of money. Now I did a little research, and there is no real-life Peggy. Her character served only a fictional role with no relation to Mangano’s family. Of course, Joy has encountered naysayers along the way which gives Peggy even more legitimacy to the story.
The first time Peggy undermined Joy, my friends and I collectively gasped in the theater.
So what characteristics does a Peggy possess?
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1. Jealous
2. Narcissistic
3. Egotistical
4. Self-Centered
5. Negative
In an earlier post, I outlined ways as to how haters are essential to your brand, but not all haters are created equal. There are strangers then those on your squad, posing in a supportive role ready to see you fall. Choose wisely my friends.
Throughout Joy, Peggy was there with a grim look on her face at the sight of Joy’s victories, however she rejoiced in every “I told you so” moment. Her spiteful fumes filled as many scenes to the point where her behavior was downright suffocating. Peggy made her disdain for Joy’s innovation crystal clear. It’s like she became physically ill seeing someone outside of herself win. The most disgusting part is that Joy could have overcame so many hurdles had Peggy not been in the picture. But, how do you break free from toxic family? In the end, Joy persevered, becoming more wise about her partnerships and business smarts…after years of embarrassment and heartache. Joy’s truest allies were her best friend and ex-husband. And grandma.
Someone in your corner is counting your wins and balancing it against their failures. Comparing and contrasting blessings is a surefire way to kill a relationship. Sometimes people, even those closest to you, are threatened by your talent. They’ll do any and everything to make you look bad at any cost. Every insensitive joke, negative feedback and hurtful word adds up. Count your losses now and send them packing. And sometimes, there are the things left unsaid. Just because you don’t hear it, doesn’t mean negativity isn’t in the air. You should pay close attention to those who won’t lift a finger in your struggle, but will show up and show out for your glory.
A charade can last for as long as your entertain it. Joy entertained Peggy for 120 minutes on film. Isn’t it time you recast the Peggy of your story?
