I started writing blogs as a way to help people navigate Hollywood and to share my experiences and lessons learned from decades spent as a talent manager.
But in the process of doing so, I discovered something else – an incredible opportunity to learn from all of you and your ongoing experiences in the entertainment industry.
Toward the end of 2018, I asked my social media followers what the biggest lesson was they had learned in the past year about how to succeed in the entertainment industry and was blown away at all the responses.
I also noticed many of them fell into a few specific buckets so I thought I’d share some of my favorites here.
1. Be Human.
What a simple idea, right? And yet it can be incredibly difficult to do in an industry that glorifies sharks.
It’s okay to be vulnerable. It’s human to be vulnerable, and you should be good at it as an actor! Understand that everybody is taking part in one shared experience, and you are never truly alone in this world.
Don’t be afraid to reach out to others and ask for advice. Conversely, help others whenever you can and try to be the type of person you would have liked to meet at a younger age.
A few comments that stood out to me:
“Always be authentic. And come from the “be of service” mindset. Laugh, cry and just be human.” – @khudsonliketheriver
“I have had an extremely rough year, I lost my Angel baby. I’ve learned that art has literally saved my life. Creating, writing, and acting gave me an outlet for my hurt. Art is magical. Also, losing my son was my biggest fear, now, what can I possibly be afraid of? I feel fearless, like I can do anything, because nothing scares me now.” – @arlenevictoria
“Reach out to people you want to meet and work with. Everyone starts somewhere. Ask for assistance.” – @susanspanostudio
2. Put In The Work.
This is a recurring theme on this blog, a value that I continually preach but couldn’t fully appreciate until I heard it echoed by so many readers in their personal stories. Again, it’s basic but it’s essential: When you have a dream, you have to be willing to work for it. I’m blessed to be surrounded by so many hardworking, talented individuals and they inspire me to do my best work, as well.
A few comments that stood out to me:
“Focus. Having an ultimate goal is so important, and focusing on it will help you make the right decisions for the smaller steps you take in your journey towards it.” – Ryan Ali
“You gotta go the extra mile and put in the 10,000 hours to gain mastery. You also have to learn the biz side of the acting biz and keep working daily on achieving your goals. A positive mindset is a must. Negativity will sink you in more ways than one.” – @PaulaJayFair
“During the silence, create your own work. Dream it, write it, record it, film it. As an artist, it’s very satisfying.” – @radiosammi
3. Keep Going and Enjoy The Process.
Above all, to thine own self be true. You can bet your butt Shakespeare loved the process. Being yourself, putting in the work, and finding value and joy in the work is absolutely crucial.
Don’t forget that it’s important to keep your head up through failure. Enjoy the growth that comes from the downs as much as the thrills that come from the ups.
A few comments that stood out to me:
“Don’t be afraid of hearing the word, ‘No.’ We don’t want to hear it but sometimes we have to because it’s necessary.” – Jest Jake
“I have learned to enjoy every audition no matter what the circumstances are. It is a glorious adventure and getting a part is secondary to my state of consciousness.” – Bruce King
“The best advice came from Dory — Just keep swimming! Honestly, when things just don’t seem to be going your way or things aren’t happening fast enough, just keep moving forward and eventually, it’ll all work out the way it’s supposed to happen.” – Viki Nazarian
“Just say F….it and go for everything you desire. Push harder!” – @amber.luckey
