The Biggest Enemy For An Actor Is ???

After spending a lot of time with actors, I've come to the conclusion that there are two types of actors. There are the actors who work hard, audition for parts, understand they can't get every part and try to learn from each audition. There are also some actors who always seem to be looking for a reason why they didn't land a part.

If you're an actor, here are some reasons why you might turn out to be your own worst enemy:

• Each actor is unique and brings their own set of skills to the table. Unfortunately, some actors don't remember this fact.  They get hung up on trying to be a certain "type" who is currently hot.  There is always going to be an audition room filled with actors who look like that certain "type". The key is to stand out from the crowd.

• Stop obsessing on things that are beyond your control. You can't control how young, how old or how ethnic the production office is casting the project. You can't control if you were the first person cast for the part or the "Plan B" choice because the first choice for the project wasn't available.  All you can focus on is doing the job you've booked.  Whether you are the first choice or the 50th choice, count yourself fortunate to be a working actor.

• It doesn't matter one bit to the casting director if you "just got the sides".  All the casting director wants to know is if you can play the part as envisioned by the director, producers, etc. Showing confidence is more important than giving excuses.

• Don't complain about how the profession of acting is unfair.  It is not unfair. It has the same amount of uncertainty and lack of stability as almost every other profession currently being practiced. The only thing that makes it "unfair" to you is no one is buying your excuses.

• What do you mean you don't have a headshot and resume?  Have two or three in your car at all times. If you get an audition for that afternoon in Hollywood but you are currently in Long Beach and live in Woodland Hills, you won't have time to swing by your home to pick up a headshot. ALWAYS have spare extra headshots (and audition clothes) in your car!

• Don't beat yourself up over lines you messed up in the audition.  Did you inhabit the character? Did you roll with the bungled lines and keep going?  Don't obsess while you're in the moment and don't obsess after the audition.  Congratulate yourself on getting the audition and look towards the future.

• There will always be other actors more successful than you at any given point in time.  I'm sure even Tom Hanks or The Rock watch other actors and wish they could land some of the parts they see on screen. Obsessing about the good fortune of others leads nowhere.

In the end, your biggest obstacle to success might be your inability to stay out of your own head. Success means different things to different people. Decide what your ultimate acting goal is and focus on achieving that goal. By focusing your energy on the positive parts of the journey, the less likely the chance you'll end up getting in your own way.

This actor is focused and realizes the acting journey is a long one.