American comedian, actor, and author Dana Carvey is well-known for his roles in comedic sketches on programs such as Saturday Night Live (SNL). He was still making a name for himself as a performer in the early 1980s, which was one of the pivotal periods in his career. Carvey felt insecure about his skills during this time and obeyed orders from others in order to land jobs and keep his job.

Carvey compared this stage of his life to learning to swim by plunging into deep waters without fully understanding the technique. Carvey took on a variety of television projects that might have seemed absurd or out of the ordinary at the time, much like a beginner swimmer might paddle frantically and inelegantly in an effort to avoid sinking. These experiences were important because they helped him refine his craft and gain confidence.

Carvey was able to improve his comedic timing and character portrayals during this time by gaining invaluable experience and being willing to go above and beyond. His adaptability and willingness to try various parts, even if they seemed "ridiculous," ultimately played a key role in determining his professional trajectory and helping him become the well-known comedian he is today.

Carvey no longer views those formative years as a time of shame or regret, but rather as a crucial stage of development and education. This perspective reflects a larger awareness that accepting difficult or unusual roles can occasionally result in unanticipated chances for both professional and personal growth.