Always Auditioning

It is hard to stay on top of things when you are traveling so much. So, if you are a working performer, don’t beat yourself up when you get behind on your “to dos.” Simultaneously, don’t use it as an excuse to be extra lazy.
After a gig, many performers come home and do mostly nothing. They won’t try to get a job and will automatically use the unemployment option. This is usually because they already have work in their future and they don’t want to waste their time working … especially since they know they will be traveling again. Don’t get too comfortable because it is temporary - that’s the idea. I don’t agree with this at all. Unemployment is out there for a reason - it’s when you get in a real jam and have to get some sort of income somehow. If you use unemployment regularly, you will find yourself unable to use it for long periods of time after awhile. So, what if you really do get in a financial jam? This would be a nightmare! … and all your unemployment rights have been used up? This is a very dangerous possibility.
So, when you are traveling from one place to another, do what you have to do to be not only a responsible performer, but a responsible adult. Get a flexible job. You don’t have to love it, and if anything, remember that it is only temporary. Nevertheless, get a job. Don’t use all your travels as an excuse.

I have been running around like a madwoman to get things done. It is insane! On top of all of it, it was freezing outside. Plenty to do on a freakin cold day. Now, actors, don’t let the craziness of New York stop you from doing any work at all. You have to go for it head first. Never think you are above and most of all, don’t let your “survivor job” help you avoid the craziness. When I say craziness, I am referring to the auditions, classes, and research you should be committing yourself to on a daily basis. This is very important. You mustn’t get so overwhelmed that you back off. You must move forward, and eventually, you find a healthy pace that won’t drive you up the wall. You have to remember that your art comes first. Then you have to find a way for the lame things like a survivor job come in. The goal is for the survivor job to not get in the way. This is a huge and common problem for people when they first move to New York. They get here and say, “I need to get a job and once I feel comfortable with that, I will start auditioning.” You know that usually becomes the priority and the performer fails to do anything with the pursuit of his or her craft. It is hard to find the perfect balance, but if you constantly pursue it, you will find your way in all the craziness.