JUNG KOOK: I AM STILL

My personal music documentary experience

What does it take to turn your passion into purpose? Watching Jungkook’s journey as both a global icon and an individual artist made me pause and reflect on how I approach my own work at Living on the B Side.

Jungkook is the youngest member of the South Korean band BTS, the Golden Maknea of the band (being good at almost everything). It was hence no surprise that he had a documentary released in which:

‘’Jung Kook invites viewers on a journey showcasing his rise to stardom, creative process, work ethic, and challenges as a global icon.’’ (source: IMbd https://www.imdb.com/title/tt32903026/)

As previously with the cinema documentaries by J-Hope and Suga, as well as the cinema concert by Suga, I was excited to experience the music, the members, and their experiences on a big screen in their solo ventures.

I find it fascinating to see their work ethic, and creativity and how they navigate the fame and pressures of being so popular around the world, as a group and now as individuals, too! There is so much to absorb and learn for my own life and business!

And with JK being so young when he became part of BTS and growing up in the limelight and stardom that followed with all its good and bad, I was curious to find out how he is doing this as a solo artist.

‘’I am Still’’ is a great showcase of how disciplined, devoted and grateful he is to create music, the opportunities to spread his wings and most of all, trying to give ARMY music they can enjoy. It is so apparent throughout the documentary that he loves and cherishes ARMY above anything, even when sick or exhausted, the thought of letting his fans down is not an option!

Drawing Inspiration from Jungkook

This got me thinking about how I, as a person, approach my passion and love for Living on the B Side?! Am I as committed and invested as JK is? Do I truly appreciate and love my clients, guests, and community? How can I take a piece of his work ethic and commitment and instil that into my own life and work?

2024 has been a ‘pit stop’ year for me. I needed to stop, breath, recharge and evaluate many things that were going on in my life. I know I talked about my brush with depression in 2023, but this year felt worse, much worse. I literally slipped into a darkness I have never experienced, but the good new is I found my way out.

Of course I let things for Living on the B Side slip, I retreated and wasn’t as present as I wished I was but let me tell you that everything that happened, it made me more determined to care for you, my community, my guests, my clients – in a nutshell my mission for it and the change I know I can bring into your and other people’s lives!

There is more to JK’s success than meets the eye

Throughout the documentary, it has become apparent that what JK achieved might seem like a solo success.

Whilst this is of course a fact, I also believe that when looking a bit more under the surface, the following is also true:

His journey with BTS and the six other members has shaped him into the human he is today:

Growing up alongside his bandmates highlights the importance of surrounding yourself with the right people. Their influence has moulded him, made into the person he is today, this resonates with me on many levels. My own journey with Living on the B Side has show me how important it is to have the support and encouragement from my inner circle, community, clients and fellow business owners who with their input allowed me to become the person I am today. So often we overlook the importance of to have a network of both personal and professionals around you that supports us with our growth and hence success.

Over to you: Ponder around who is in your circle. Are they pushing you to grow, or holding you back? Surround yourself with people who support and challenge you to become your best self.

Thanks to the Influence of Other Members and Behind-the-Scenes Staff, He Has Learned the Traits of the Entertainment Business

Jungkook’s rise didn’t happen in isolation—he learned from his bandmates and the staff around him. For me, Living on the B Side is also a collaborative effort. I have learned so much over the years, gained invaluable insights from so many individuals such as my business coach (Casey, you are leaving your footprints in the sand of time for sure!), fellow business owners (love all your individuality and craziness!), and my community (do you know how incredible you are?!). All that feedback and encouragement are like the behind-the-scenes staff in my own journey.

Over to you: Don’t be afraid to lean on others for advice or support. Seek out those with skills you admire and learn from them. Who can be your “behind-the-scenes” guide on your journey?

Willingness to Try and Fail Is Crucial to Gaining Experience and Doing Better

Jungkook has taken risks, and sometimes, he’s faced failure. But that’s part of the process. It reminds me of the times I’ve tried new content ideas or product offerings in my business that didn’t land the way I hoped. Failure isn’t the end—it’s a learning opportunity. Just like Jungkook, I’ve realized that by embracing those moments of discomfort, I gain clarity and improve over time.

Actionable Insight: What’s one thing you’ve been hesitant to try because you’re afraid of failure? Consider failure as a stepping stone to success and take that first step.

Talent Alone Does Not Necessarily Create Success

Jungkook is amazingly talented, but talent alone isn’t what got him where he is today. His relentless work ethic and commitment play a huge role, right?! Again, I have realised that having my passion and creativity is what is driving me, the success of Living on the B Side also comes from finding my discipline and consistency – whether that is showing up regularly in my Facebook group, regular blog posts and emails as well as podcast episodes, or engaging with my community. Consistency is key!

Over to you: What can you do consistently, even if it’s small? Start with one habit that aligns with your goals and stick to it. Success comes from steady, persistent effort. PS: Using music to support this can be a game changer!

Loving What You Do Is a Must; Passion for the Craft Is Key to Success

Jungkook’s love for music is clear as water to me, and that love fuels his success. And that hits a spot for me because of Living on the B Side – to me it is not ‘just a business’ but a passion, a mission. Whilst I have moments when I thought I could not go on, I remind myself why I started: my love of music and and helping others connect with it to improve their wellbeing. That passion keeps me going, even on hard days.

Over to you: Take a moment to reconnect with your ‘why.’ Why did you start your journey? Let that passion guide you, especially when things feel tough.

Love Your Fans, Followers, Clients, and Supporters Like They Are Your Best Friends

Jungkook’s deep care for ARMY is undeniable, just thinking about how many times he had tears in his eyes because of his fans makes me teary, too!

In my own world, my community (listeners, guests, clients, supporters, etc.) are at the heart of everything I do. Just like Jungkook puts his fans first, I try to do my best to show up consistently for my community—whether it’s through thoughtful content, personal interactions, or simply being present when they need support. Building these relationships is not just about business; it’s about genuine connection, and at that us introverts are pros!

Over to you: How can you show appreciation for your supporters/fans/clients, etc.? Small gestures like a thank-you message, a shoutout, or offering extra value can go a long way in building loyal relationships.

Main Takeaway

My main takeaway is that whilst we as individuals might have all the talent and character traits that can achieve success, without a team by our side this journey will be so much harder, and this includes not only team members, fellow business owners, coaches, etc but also those that we call ‘followers’ or ‘fans’ or clients.

If all these pieces of the puzzle come together, they paint a picture that definitely spells ‘success’.

So, whether you’re a BTS fan or not, there is something to take away from Jungkook’s journey and what he has shared about his solo journey (so far). How can you and I bring that same commitment and love to our own work and life? I’d love to hear your thoughts, share them with me by email or social media channels!”

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