With all the ups and downs in an actor’s career, it’s sometimes hard to picture a windfall of anything—whether that be money or work. So the question becomes: How can you practice focusing on bringing in what you want in your life, even when it feels like it’s never going to happen?
“The Power of Now,” “The Secret,” “The Law of Attraction,” “The Four Agreements,”—whatever it is that you have read, followed, or studied, the bottom line is that it can work. Being an actor is hard—this we all know. The lows can seem like an endless desert without an oasis in sight. We are creatures of impulse and emotion, so when there isn’t money coming in and we have heard yet another no, it’s extremely challenging to believe that things will turn around. Every single actor I have worked with, every single one, has felt the weight of uncertainty, doubt, and even depression that comes from our chosen career paths. Here are a few actor-friendly ideas in times of deprivation to create and allow in abundance.
1. Look around. Start by looking at what you have in your life. We tend to get hyper focused on what isn’t happening and that can spiral us downwards, so start by just making a list of what is good in your life. No need to overthink this, just go with your gut and make a list. Health, a great friend or two, family, a pet, a plant, beautiful eyes, or a great butt, a good day or free latte—it doesn’t really matter how big, small, serious, or silly. Just write it down and then take a beat, breathe in, and see how you feel. In that moment, my guess is you will feel a bit of energy and lightness. There might even be a smile on your face. Take that and move on to Step 2.
2. Take a walk. Exercise that good feeling and glow by taking it out into the world. See what happens when you smile at someone or ask a barista or cashier about their day. As actors we are asked to exhibit and/or exude a charisma that we rarely exercise on a daily basis. It’s a hard thing to fake—especially when you are worried about paying the rent or even missing an audition because of your day job. Practice making a stranger laugh or smile. Connect with people on an intimate level. Share what feels good and see what comes in. That’s what will take you to Step 3.
3. Be in the moment, for a moment. This is what we aspire to do as actors, yet rarely practice in life. Right now as you read this, are you OK? How do you feel? What are you touching? Focus on what is now, as well as what will be in the future. Try answering only yes or no to these questions. “I don’t know” isn’t an option. Will you get another audition? Do you love acting? Do you deserve success? Will you move someone with a performance? Are you going to give up today? Do you want to do something else with your life? Are you an actor? Can you move past what isn’t and focus on what is?
This may seem overly simple, however if you truly commit to trying— as if your career depended on it—I bet you will feel a difference. The key and goal then becomes to make this practice a habit. If you want to shine in front of the lights, start by allowing the one within you to be the brightest. Like a moth to a flame, the jobs will come.
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