Choosing

"Maybe it's time I rethink career?!"

These were the words from a much younger actor I spoke to earlier this week.  

Acting the Myth:  Fame, Fortune, Fast Cars, Red Carpets, Jet Setting Life Style, Adoring Fans, Gala Parties, Excitement At Work, Never A Dull Moment, Whirlwind Romances, Sordid Affairs, Glitz, Glamour and Lots and Lots of Fun

Acting the Reality: Uncertain Income, Struggling To Meet The Bills, Challenged Relationships, Extreme High's and Low's, Frustration With Lacking Work, Ongoing Self Promotion, Extra Work Beyond What Pays Bills, Slant Eyes From Friends And Family Who Wish You Well.

I looked long and hard at the actor and said "Yes.  Yes you should.  But make sure you rethink it with passion."

Both of those realities are possible for any actor.  The first one is only a myth, because it is rare and, although real,  it is what people thinks happens the moment they decide to go into acting.  The second one is the reality because it is most commonly the result of deciding to become an actor.  When you look at the reality, you have to love the craft, so that you can accept where you are at.  It means there are sacrifices and hardships but all of those are worth it for the love of the craft.  You have to have passion and you must be passionate about what you do or you cannot do it - even if it means struggling.  Here is the thing though; the myth rarely to never happens unless you have passion, but the reality happens regardless.  It is the passion that drives you through and brings you to the top. 

So if you are thinking about any of the hardships you may face and then you find yourself thinking about any other line of work - go and do it because you will be much happier without the struggle.