Thankfully Christmas came and wiped my blues away; I’m feeling hopeful and determined again. Thanks to everyone who sent me a note of encouragement and support. It’s so important to check in with fellow travelers on the journey and I’m happy to know you all have my back!
Looking back on this year, I’ve actually had some major successes and a long streak of acting work. I’ve shot lead roles in 2 indie features, have written and produced my own solo show which debuted in NYC and got some great press, been called in to read for a role in a major motion picture starring Helen Mirren and at a couple of medium-large equity houses, and have sustained myself (for the most part) with a variety of commercial, print, industrial and live performance acting gigs. It’s been a very good year for me and I am grateful for the work. It has also been a very busy year which leads me to my next point…
Learning how and when to say NO and take some personal time. As actors we are always afraid there won’t be a next job, so we tend to say YES even when we might need a break and are burnt out or aren’t really sure how interested we are in the project or the timing is bad. I know I do. And it ends up biting me in the ass everytime. I’m not the best at prioritizing and protecting my own needs, body, schedule and creative vision. Which is why I’ve been so cranky lately: I’m exhausted and overextended and need to take a break to recharge my batteries. I haven’t taken a vacation in over 7 years! So as part of my New Year plan to take better care of my own needs, I’m taking the next week off people. I’m calling off all meetings and gigs, and asking for deadline extensions on a couple of projects. No work. No responsibilities. No commitments…just baths and naps and movies and cocktails. I’m out until January 1st, maybe longer. So have a very Happy New Year! It’s gonna be a good one. I can feel it.
Tags: acting career, Actress, encouragement, Feature film, Helen Mirren, naps, New Year, personal time, saying NO, self care, support
December 27, 2008 at 8:32 am
“No” is a girl’s best friend. “No” is a gift. “No” is not necessarily negative. Looking forward to seeing once you’re restored and revitalized, and congratulations on a great year. Let’s top it in 2009.