A mission statement is a statement of the purpose of a company, organization, or person—its reason for existing. What is your reason for existing? Why are you here?
You can think about a mission statement like a vision statement or vision board. The statement is similar in that it is about a desired future state. You can cut out photos of you on a film set opposite Robert De Niro or Meryl Streep, in a TV studio appearing on your own sitcom, or living in a mansion driving a Lamborghini. But it’s in the future and it’s wishful thinking. A mission statement is a definition of who you are. It includes strategy like a roadmap for getting where you want to be. Unlike a goal, there is no time limit or deadline. It’s for your whole life.
As human beings, we’re all a bit self-centered. We think about my career, my audition, my booking, my agent, my income, my success. By creating a mission statement we can explore a higher path. So, instead of setting a goal like “I will get a top agent to represent me by April 1. I will earn a five-figure income this year. I will book two guest-starring roles.” Why not create a mission statement? It defines who you are by what you intend to do in, and for, the world.
Here are is an example. Tony Hsieh is the CEO of Zappos. His mission statement is “to provide the best customer service possible.” Here are some of his ABCs:
A. Free standard shipping.
B. Free return shipping within the U.S. and territories—so you lose nothing if the shoes don’t fit!
C. Friendly and responsive customer support.
D. A happy and fun work environment so employees can spread goodwill.
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While other corporations may be routinely hated for treating customers with indifference—their mission statement was probably closer to “we’ll make money first; customers come second”—Tony made millions and even wrote a book describing how he did it, “Delivering Happiness.”
As an actor, your mission statement defines who you are and what you want to achieve, but also how you can contribute to the world. Here's an example: “I am an exceptional and unique actor. I am here to exceed all expectations with thrilling performances that touch and inspire others!”
Keeping the above in mind, here are some possible ABCs:
A. I will be so prepared that my auditions are brilliant!
Result? When casting directors, producers, and directors see amazing talent, they go out of their way to support it, and if not hire you, may refer you.
B. I will always be in shape physically, calmly centered, emotionally positive, and looking great!
Result? Industry professionals hire not just the most talented actors, but those who are the most polished and pleasant to work with.
C. Nothing will take priority over my career, my auditions, my training, my preparation. It comes first.
Result? You’ll gain a reputation as a solid, trusted talent in demand.
A mission statement is about your whole life—who you are and why you are here—so you can free yourself from a slew of negatives (fear, expectation, doubt, impatience, anger, and depression) especially if your goals aren’t met on time.
It releases you from:
I have to get signed to a top agent by______.
I have to prove my worth to my parents.
I have to have to earn at least________, etc.
It provides a powerful structure for your life. You keep going because that is your mission—your calling. As you persist, you will succeed.
Mission statement ready? Apply to casting calls on Backstage!
The views expressed in this article are solely that of the individual(s) providing them,
and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of Backstage or its staff.
