It’s important to remain down-to-earth, but also to stay above the surface.

Britney Jean Spears rose to stardom in the late 1990s following the release of her iconic debut single, “…Baby One More Time,” and its album of the same name.

In 2000, her follow-up album Oops!… I Did It Again established her as a bona fide pop superstar, shattering records that remain unbeaten to this day. Her meteoric rise to fame, which started when she was only 16 years old, has earned her a special place in popular culture. But unfortunately, so has her very public downfall.

The time between 2005 and 2007 was Spears’ most turbulent period in the public eye—a time that included a 55-hour marriage, a custody battle, and a very infamous head-shaving among other things. Her career receded to the background, overshadowed by her troubled personal life as it was covered by every media outlet around the world.

Those years are now behind her, and she has become much more focused on both her career and her children. And while she has never formally discussed her past trials publicly, she does credit her support group, comprised of her family and all those closest to her, for helping her keep her head on her shoulders as she continues to navigate the treacherous waters of show business.

“It’s important to have a group of people around you who can keep you down to earth. It’s a mind-altering experience when you become a pop star at such a young age.” – Britney Spears

Her meteoric rise to superstardom early in life hit her with blunt force, and unprepared as she was, she got lost in the fame and glamour. It was those who truly cared about her, such as her father, who pulled her back to reality and gave her a new perspective on her life and fame.

More recently, her new residency show in Las Vegas has allowed her to maintain both aspects of her life in harmony. The show has proven to be a huge hit, drawing large crowds every night. The regularity of remaining in one place, as opposed to touring the world, has given her a sense of normalcy and allows her to spend more time with her family.

“I’m really just a boring homebody who loves staying home with my kids and thats where i’m the happiest. [sic]” –Britney Spears

Though it might have come at a high price, Britney Spears has finally found that balance between professional success and personal fulfillment. The story of her rise, fall, and subsequent return to the top is an inspiration—a call for us to persevere and wait for that silver lining that will lead us to success. We all need someone who can serve as both an anchor during unexpected highs and a rock when we are struggling to remain standing.

Remember, success doesn’t mean much when there is no one to share it with.

 

Image Credit: theapricity.com