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Read Insight's exclusive Personal Insights with Olivia Newton-John
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Olivia Newton-John is still going strong after a career spanning more than four decades, with each generation of her fan base probably having a different song or performance association when her name is mentioned. For the Baby Boomers If Not For You or Let Me Be There; Gen X Physical or Grease and Gen Y would know Olivia for her recent appearance on Glee.
With a personal philosophy of ‘no matter what, live a life of grace and gratitude …’ Olivia’s latest album Grace and Gratitude Renewed stems from one of her other beliefs that music is a healing tool that has helped her through difficulties on more than one occasion. This album is a re-working of an earlier release of GAIA, which was penned when she was going through her very public battle with cancer. Initially Olivia was going to retire and enjoy life, however, when songs kept coming to her in the middle of the night, she felt compelled to write and so her musical journey continues…
What attracted you to singing and acting? Did you ever want to pursue any other career?
My mum used to say I was singing since I was a little girl, so it always seemed like the natural thing for me to do. However, if I did not become a performer, I would have become a veterinarian because I love animals.
With Grammy Awards, numerous Country Music Awards and People’s Choice Awards under your belt, how does it feel to be publicly recognised for your work?
It is always an honour to be acknowledged for your work by not only your peers, but by the fans as well.
What do you think has made you successful?
Oh, I am not sure, but I think some of it has to do with the fact that I absolutely love what I do. I am grateful every day that I get to do something I enjoy completely!
After the death of your daughter’s friend to a rare form of cancer, you became the National Spokesperson of the Colette Chuda Environmental Fund. Why did you choose this particular fund?
That was a very difficult time for me and, the Chudas were and still are extremely close friends. I wanted to lend my name to it because it is important to know what is in products and what we are exposing our children and family to. If my celebrity can help make a difference, I want to contribute in any way I can.
In the 90s, you faced your own battle with breast cancer. What was your initial reaction when you found out?
My initial reaction was ‘why me?’ Then you get past it and realise, I have a daughter, a family - I am going to beat this. Today, almost 18 years later, I am cancer free and a ‘thriver’!
How difficult was this experience for you?
It was very difficult, but just when you think you cannot handle something like cancer you realise you are much stronger than you first thought.
How did the support of your family and friends help you?
My friends and family were incredible. It is very important to have people around you who can be there to fill others in about your progress and treatment so you can focus on the healing, rather than the illness. I tell everyone to assign a family member (a husband, sister, brother, wife or mother) to keep everyone informed.
What does it mean to you to be a survivor?
I hate the word survivor. Instead, I prefer ‘thriver’. Survivor sounds like you are ‘hanging on’ and I am past it and THRIVING!
Do you view life differently now?
I have always viewed life as a gift. It is important to show gratitude for everything you have.
What did you learn about life on your journey?
I learned that life is precious and that you need to be grateful for each day.
How do you balance your career and personal life?
Luckily, the universe has been working with me [laughs]. My husband and I travel together almost constantly, even when we are working on our individual projects, so it has been great that we get to spend a lot of time with each other. It is all about focus on what is important and of course, first and foremost are family and friends.
With the stress of your public life, what keeps you grounded?
Spending time with my husband, daughter and dogs. Plus I take my husband’s Amazon Herbs and drink Zamu (organic health juice he created).
Have you had a ‘spiritual awakening’ in your life? If so, how did it change you?
I think having cancer definitely made me re-evaluate what was important in my life. Up until then I put a lot of emphasis on other people but the cancer journey really makes you look at your life and teaches you that you need to take care of yourself first (mind and body). As women we tend to be nurturers and want to take care of everyone else first.
What do you see happening in the world in the next ten years and what will your contribution be?
I think unless we start to take care of the planet and stop poisoning it, we will see more illness and horrible things happening. My contribution will be to continue to try and raise as much awareness as I can.
What issues do you feel are the most pressing in the world?
I think we need to really focus on healing the planet because we are using a lot of toxins and chemicals that destroy the ozone. My husband and I do a lot of work to preserve the Amazon rainforest and educate people on the importance of a living rainforest versus a dead one. There are so many global issues that come from destroying the rainforest. Also, I think that once we heal the planet we will see less illness.
Which book would you recommend people read?
I love Eat, Pray, Love by Elizabeth Gilbert.
Name two people who have inspired you on your journey.
For sure my mum! She has inspired me throughout my life to love all things; she was a strong and amazing woman. Also, my husband John (Easterling) inspires me every day. The work he has been doing for the last 30 years in the Amazon rainforest to help the indigenous people get deed and title to their land is wonderful. He is my soulmate.
Sum up your philosophy on life.
Life is a gift, so no matter what, live one that is full of grace and gratitude. It goes by so quickly.
Olivia Newton-John is part owner owner of the Byron Bay hinterland accommodation and day spa retreat, Gaia. www.gaiaretreat.com.au |
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