Lessons learned from Cinnamon Carter

I’m having a rough go at things, so naturally, I’m binge watching the original Mission: Impossible series.  Seeing talented actors evade Soviets and South American dictators and mafia bosses quieted my mind in college, so again, it’s allowing me to escape my daily stressors.

My favorite episodes concern the model-turned-spy Cinnamon Carter.  I had always thought the actress who played her was pretty young, since her looks were part of her role.  Nope, she was in her late 30s, and probably why I look up to her.

Cinnamon was classy.  She never had a hair or nail out of place, whether she was playing a wealthy diplomat or helping Barney with his electronic setups.  Her nails were always well groomed, even when they weren’t polished (which was more often than not), and her style was never sloppy or unkempt.

Cinnamon was calm.  She could take on dictators and mobsters without blinking an eye, even in an era where in some places, women were to be seen and not heard.  When the mission didn’t go according to plan, she never panicked.

Cinnamon was calcuated.  There was research, rehearsal, and organizing that went into each mission.  Not only was there a plan, but often a backup plan in case of contingencies.  It was clear she was always thinking, always plotting of what to do next.

Cinnamon was cool.  She could walk into a room, knowing full well she had everyone’s attention, without breaking a sweat.  Even when things didn’t go exactly as planned, she was able to improvise, trusting her problem-solving skills.

Cinnamon was confident.  Whether it was biochemistry or journalism or modeling, she didn’t hesitate a bit.  She could saw out a wall, then trick a mobster to believe she was a dumb blonde.  In fact, she used her intellect and research to be an equal to men.

Obviously, the world of television isn’t real.  One corrupt Soviet Bloc police captain ended up being Archie Bunker.  We won’t talk about Spock’s second life as The Great Paris—or that losing Leonard Nimoy is why I started watching in the first place—but there are still points where life imitates art that can be applied to real life.

I can spend more time working on my appearance and style.  I can work on my acting skills so I don’t wear my heart on my sleeve.  I can spend more time planning and organizing.  I can work on being able to think and process while stressing.  I can start reminding myself I’m smart and talented and resourceful and able to solve any problem.

All of these things will help on my quest.  From lowering my marathon PR to navigating two countries where I don’t know the language, learning to be more classy, confident, and calm is a benefit.  So I will be continuing to channel my inner Cinnamon Carter.