As we approach a possible restart of our industry, I want to take a hot second to talk about the problem that plagues actors (and would-be actors) all around the globe: the idea that we have to somehow 'prove ourselves' in order to succeed.
Stop Proving Yourself, Actors!
Jun 15, 2020
This idea is nothing new. Quick cut to Shakespeare's players delivering soliloquies amidst the barrage of tomatoes being thrown at their heads.
Since these early days, we as actors have subscribed to this notion, and mistaken belief, that we are somehow 'less than' and that we have to prove our worth and value on stage, in rehearsal, on set, in the audition room, at the Thanksgiving dinner table to drunk uncle Pete...you get the idea.
"But Tony" you say, "What about auditions? An audition is a chance to prove yourself, is it not?"
Let's be very clear. An audition is not about proving yourself. You are already proven or you would not be called into this room amongst a select few.
An audition is not about showing off, it is about showing up (for yourself and for the story). It is about being present, genuinely connecting to the reader, and building lasting relationships with Casting (by doing great work and being consistent).
For your next audition, ask yourself these questions:
1. What would I do if I wasn't afraid of failure?
2. How would I do this scene if I were already cast?
3. How would I do this scene if it was only me and the reader in the room?
4. How would I do this scene if the reader was the one auditioning?
5. What would I do if I was already proven?
Now change these questions into affirming statements:
1. I embrace failure!
2. I'm already cast in the role!
3. It's just me and the reader, baby!
4. The reader is the one auditioning and I'm going to help them shine!
5. I AM PROVEN. I AM ENOUGH.
These powerful statements can make all the difference in combatting those negative voices in your head. Acting is an inner game and when you've mastered your mindset, you will work ALL THE TIME (I speak from experience as I am working on a script for two projects and prepping for a record as my recurring character on a popular US cartoon series - all during a pandemic, none of this happened by accident)
So as things start to return to normal, will you choose to believe you are good enough? Or will you keep looking for proof in order to move forward?
Expect Nothing. Embrace Everything.
You Are Enough my dear one.
Tony Babcock
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Tony Babcock started IYA Studio for Actors over ten years ago with a mission: to bridge the gap between improv, acting, and life in order to help actors reach their full potential and enjoy the journey.
Tony is an award-winning, unionized actor, director & acting coach with over 20 years of industry experience. He has helped thousands of actors to be more successful in their careers. He is also a certified life coach, NLP practitioner, motivational speaker and author.
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