After my last big acting job; the independent film “The Boy with the Sun in His Eyes”, I decided to take a much needed breather. Filming that movie was a lot of hard work! I’m telling you, my body was sore to the bone, and my emotions were drained. “The Boy…” was my first leading role in a feature length film so I was a bit surprised at how exhausting the process would be.
Before I landed this job, I was preparing for it. I read several acting books, such as Michael Caine’s Acting in Film, and Act Now! by Peter Jazwinski (both are excellent tools). In these books, I learned some valuable tips of the trade. The books helped me prepare for my audition and ultimately being blessed with the leading lady role.
It took several weeks to film this movie (a portion in the States and the rest in Europe) and afterwards I was worn out. I couldn’t imagine jumping right into another big role, so I opted to take a hiatus. Now, don’t get me wrong, I didn’t flop on the sofa, and stuff my face with Pop Secret, while watching my favorite movie (well…at least not every night). During my hiatus I prepared for my next blessing. For me, that meant getting in shape—mentally and physically.
My mental work outs included reading good acting books like Caine’s and Jazwinski’s. And before bed, or when I first woke up, I grabbed Power of a Praying Woman by Stormie Omartian. All of these books kept me mentally alert and spiritually refreshed. When I act, I wrap myself around my character. So after being “Solange”; this vivacious former pop-diva, turned hit woman, I needed to recharge/restart my mind.
And during my hiatus, when I wasn’t stimulating my brain, I was working out my muscles.
LL Cool J’s fitness book came out just in time. I started the book in January, and continue to use it today. It’s the blue print to my 3-4 day a week workout regime. LL Cool J’s Platinum Workout is an awesome book, and I look forward to meeting him again, and saying “Thank you LL!” In a matter of weeks, I saw my body transform, plus I got stronger, and had more energy. As an actress, I want to not only give my best acting performance, but I want to look my best on camera. So that means staying in shape, even when I don’t have an acting gig.
I always want to be prepared. And you should be prepared too!
Often times, we as performing artist get discouraged when we don’t get a job we auditioned for. Then we crawl into a corner and lick our wounds. Stop it! When you don’t get a role, don’t take it personal. You may not realize it, but “rejection is God’s protection”. Instead of feeling like a failure (which you are not) prepare for your next blessing. Every blessing for your life; be it acting or otherwise, has your name on it. No one can take it away from you. In fact, you are the only person that can stand in the way. You can be your own biggest obstacle and worst enemy by living in doubt, fear, depression, and worry.
God has a wonderful plan for your career. All you have to do is prepare and have faith.
During my hiatus, I kept my ear to the street, and checked the casting/breakdown service sites. I didn’t apply for roles that I felt wouldn’t stimulate or challenge me. Besides, I’d just got off the plane from filming a movie in fabulous Europe, with an amazing cast and crew, so my bar was raised, and my expectations were higher. I knew that the next role I accepted had to be for something equally awesome. And until that opportunity presented itself, I decided to prepare.
By brushing up on my acting skills and working out with LL Cool J (well, not literally, but that would be beyond cool), I was preparing myself for my blessing. I knew that the next acting job was right around the corner, and I wanted to be ready for it.
I encourage you to always be ready as well.
When you least expect it, a wonderful role will come your way, so don’t be caught off guard. Be prepared to receive the blessing that God has in store for you. If you know you’re out of shape, then put down the pizza, get LL’s book, and get in shape. If your acting skills are a little rusty, or need a tune-up, pick up a good acting book, or take a class.
But whatever you do, do not choose to do nothing.
This philosophy works not only for someone in the arts, but life in general. Every day is another chance to improve and prepare. If you are like me, you are always seeking a new challenge. Preparation will therefore be a key component of your success. I’m willing to bet that some of the top actors in Hollywood continuously prepare for their next role.
I challenge you to do the same. Sure, you may not be a top actor…yet. So stay prepared, because the best is yet to come. Be ready when it does.
See you at the top!
Be blessed and stay encouraged,
Mahogany
p.s. Other up-and-coming actors will benefit from your feedback. Your posted comments are appreciated.
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