An Actor's Secrets to Keeping Sane

Working professionally in the theatre industry is every actor’s dream. But with statistics of something like 92% of the profession out of work at any given time, the chances of actually getting to perform are few and far between.

Michael Simkins of The Guardian sums it up like this.

"The most common complaint about the acting game is that the profession is unfair. It isn't: but it is indifferent. It gives everything to some, and nothing to others, and it's not going to explain why. There's no point complaining: nobody's listening."

We get it.

And we continue to fight the odds.

Here's my question to you: based on these odds, if your life is solely defined by your work, are you really happy?

1. Redefine How to Draw Your Self-worth

Hey, self-doubt! Quit it!

When pursuing acting as a career, dry spells in work aren’t just possible or probable; they’re inevitable and every actor has experienced them.  If you're basing your self-esteem entirely on how well your career is going, you're in for a very bumpy ride.

You are not your work. Separate yourself from the parts of your career that are out of your hands.

Easier said than done, right?

Try redefining your self-worth through the way you treat yourself and others. How would you like to be remembered?

2. Explore Reflective Journaling

Give yourself 10-20 minutes each night before you go to bed to let it all out on paper. Reflect. What are you thankful for today? What made you laugh? What are you struggling with? Putting your emotions into words can lead to a deeper and more realistic view of your day.

Putting pen to paper, (vs. typing on a keyboard) forces you to slow down and process your feelings.

3. Discover New Creative Outlets

Express yo'self!

Do you like to write? Draw? Sketch? Design? Paint? Are you into photography? Graphic art? Playwriting? Blogging? Editing? Scrapbooking? Cooking? Do you write music? Poetry? Are you an avid reader? A gamer?

It is so important to exercise your creative mind in different ways other than acting.

Isn't that how we grow as artists?

4. Get Yourself Some Fresh Air

Take a hike. Seriously. If it’s nice out, lay by the pool (a personal favorite of mine.) Do something that takes you outside for once... far, far away from harsh audition room florescent lighting and chilly theater buildings. Your heart, your mind, and your lungs, will thank you.

(why are theaters always FREEZING?!)

5. Surround yourself with the right people

Surrounding yourself with people who have the same mind set as you; driven, hard working and with a healthy outlook on life, can have a great impact on your work ethic.

You are who choose to be with. Choose wisely.

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Maggie Bera is an actress, entrepreneur, and founder of Actor Aesthetic.