Let Go of the Should's
by Jodie Bentley
Why are you an actor? Why MUST you pursue this career day in and day out? Notice I didn't ask "Why you should be an actor?" You have to know the 'why' before we can create a business plan, map goals, and strategize marketing our brand .
So many times I hear my clients talk of all the things they should do. I 'should' do soap operas because it'd be easy money. I 'should' do commercials because I have been told I have a good look. I 'should' sing even though I can't or don't because I could work more. But why add "should's" to your daily list of To Do's?
We do A LOT as actors. The day flies by. Wake up early to get a spot in line at the EPA, go to 2 commercial auditions, plus an audition technique class and then do a soap opera mailing .... oh yeah, and work the money job for a few hours and don't forget the gym. Multiply that by 7 days, 52 weeks a year. It can be exhausting and easily overwhelming.
I've heard teachers say "If you can do something else then do it''. I mean, of course we all could do something else, we're talented, driven and creative people! I think they're well intentioned, but not helpful.
They should really say 'If you are going to live an actor's life - LOVE it and know why you are passionate about doing it'. What is it about acting are you passionate about? What drives you? What will get you to work a late night shift and get out of bed early the next morning? What will nurture your soul and feed your mind when you don't get the callback? You need to be clear on the reasons of why you are doing something and that is why checking in with your passion is so important.
Passion is a tricky thing and needs to be nurtured like a relationship. If you neglect a relationship it falters - if you neglect your passion it will waiver. When we say passion we also mean the entrepreneurial spirit. As we say all the time, you are your own small business and you need a clear vision for that business to live out its passion. Your passion is your life's mission. Your passion is what stirs emotion and drive in you. If it feels good you will do it. If you dread it, you'll put it off. Are there auditions or meet and greets or classes you haven't gone to cause you dread it. How can you reframe that so that you will enjoy it?
After all. Why do something if it doesn't ignite you?!! Don't let the years go by doing what you think you 'should' do. Do what you feel passionately about.
