Tuesday, January 11, 2011

To Woman Over 40

I hear my fellow actors say that there’s no work for women over 40, but that’s only true if you believe it. Choose not to. Your mind is a powerful tool. Use it to work for you, not against you. I’m 50 and am working now more than ever. It’s more rewarding work, too. The roles are deeper, more realized, with a lot more substance. I get to infuse my roles with the wisdom that years of experience bring. And I find that there’s no more fear. I’m completely willing to go places I’ve never gone before because I trust myself. I’m confident in my abilities and have a desire to share all that I’ve learned. I love getting older. It’s all in your mind anyway. I plan to grow old gracefully. I’m allowing myself to be my age and play roles that are my age. No need to look or act younger. I’ve already played those parts. I’m at home in my own skin and I want to share the beauty of that with others. Young women need good role models. Especially when they’re looking at magazines with emaciated, surgically enhanced bodies and faces. We need to embrace the beauty of the cycle of life.

Advice To Actors

If you don’t want to be an actor with all your heart, mind, body and soul, then do something else. This is a challenging business. You have to really want it. You’ll need to devote yourself 100% to being the best you can be. This industry is filled with talent and you need to find a way to stand out from the crowd. Take classes, take care of yourself, eat right & exercise daily, invest wisely in your career with professional photos & a strong resume. When you find a good manager or agent to represent you, continue networking and marketing yourself. Promote yourself. Create a good database and send out updates about what you’re doing & where your work can be seen. Talent is important, but I’ve seen many talented actors fail because they don’t do the marketing that’s required. You’re a product. Make sure that you advertise & promote it well. Keep believing in yourself. There will be many rejections, but persevere. Be well prepared & show up at your appointments on time. Do your best in the audition room, walk out confidently , then let it go. Focus on what’s next. It’s not good to dwell on the past or beat yourself up. Learn from your mistakes. You will succeed if you believe you will. Be bold, daring and courageous. Trust your instincts. Make strong choices. Take risks. Dream big, and live your dream!