By As an actor, rejection is a part of the job. It’s like a badge of dishonor, a necessary evil. But let’s be real, it sucks. Handling rejection in acting can be soul-crushing, confidence-shattering, and just plain old depressing. But fear not, my fellow thespians, for I have some tips and tricks to help you navigate the rough seas of rejection and turn it into a hilarious ride.
Handling Rejection in Acting
First and foremost, remember that rejection is not personal. It’s not a reflection of your worth as a person, or even as an actor. It’s simply a reflection of the specific role or project you auditioned for. Think of it this way, you’re not just auditioning for a role, you’re auditioning for a role that is a perfect fit for you and the project. And let’s face it, sometimes that perfect fit just isn’t there. It’s not you, it’s them. They’re probably looking for someone shorter, taller, more attractive, more… something. But hey, at least you know you’re not the problem, right?
Learn from the experience
Secondly, try to learn from the experience. If feedback is given, take it with a grain of salt and consider what you can do differently next time. Think about the audition, what worked and what didn’t. Use it as a learning opportunity to improve your craft. And if you don’t get feedback, don’t be afraid to ask for it. But because you don’t want to take the precious time of the casting directors, ask your agent if he/she can get you some feedback from them. So you won’t interrupt the process of auditioning.
It’s always good to get a fresh perspective on your performance. Just make sure you’re ready for some brutal honesty. They might say something like, “You were terrible,” or “Your acting was like watching paint dry.” But hey, at least they’re being honest, right?
Perspective is important
Thirdly, keep things in perspective. Remember that even the most successful actors face rejection. Meryl Streep, Tom Hanks, and Denzel Washington, they’ve all faced rejection. And yet, they’re still some of the most successful actors in the industry. It’s all part of the process of growing and improving as an actor. You’re not alone in this. In fact, you’re in good company. You’re like a member of the rejection club, and let me tell you, it’s a pretty exclusive club.
Self-care
Fourthly, take care of yourself. Rejection can be emotionally draining, so make sure you take the time to do things that make you feel good and help you relax. Take a yoga class, go for a run, binge-watch your favorite show, or whatever it is that makes you happy. And don’t forget to treat yourself. A pint of ice cream, a new pair of shoes, or even a bottle of wine can go a long way in lifting your spirits. Just make sure you don’t overdo it. We don’t want you to turn into a professional couch potato or a wine connoisseur.
Maybe you could be also interested in my other article – OVERCOMING DOWNS AS AN ARTIST.
Handling Rejection in Acting doesn’t mean to stop
Fifthly, keep auditioning and working on your craft. Don’t let rejection discourage you from pursuing your passion. Audition for as many roles as you can, even if they’re not perfect for you. It’s all about getting experience, making connections, and staying sharp. And don’t forget to keep honing your craft. Take classes, workshops, and even self-tape auditions. The more you work on your craft, the better you’ll become. And make sure you’re not working so hard that you forget to have fun with it. After all, acting is supposed to be enjoyable, not a chore.
People around you are important
And lastly, surround yourself with supportive people. Friends, family, fellow actors, and even industry professionals can provide you with valuable guidance and support. They can be a sounding board for your thoughts and feelings, and they can offer words of encouragement when you need them most. And if all else fails, remember to laugh. Watch a comedy, tell a joke, or even make fun of yourself. Laughter truly is the best medicine.
In conclusion, rejection is a part of the actor’s journey. It’s not easy, but it’s necessary. Remember that rejection is not personal, learn from the experience, keep things in perspective, take care of yourself, keep working on your craft, and surround yourself with supportive people. And always remember, to have a sense of humor. Laugh at yourself, the situation, and the industry. It’s a tough business and sometimes the best way to cope with rejection is to find the humor in it. You never know when that perfect role or project will come along. And in the meantime, don’t take yourself too seriously. Learn to laugh at the absurdity of it all, and enjoy the journey. And remember, when all else fails, there’s always ice cream.
So, the next time you are handling rejection in acting, don’t let it get you down. Remember to take a deep breath, remind yourself that rejection is not personal, and then go out and get yourself a pint of ice cream. You deserve it. And if you’re feeling extra adventurous, get a pint of Ben & Jerry’s AmeriCone Dream. It’s a flavor that will make you forget all the sorrows of rejection.
And above all, remember to always be yourself. The industry is looking for unique and authentic actors, so don’t try to be someone you’re not. And if they don’t like you for who you are, well, then that’s their loss, isn’t it?
About the author:
My pursuit of artistic perfection extends beyond the stage and into the world of film. Represented by agent Jill Kabush at Dorothy S. Management, I am actively seeking opportunities to make my mark in the industry. Though my creative interests are diverse - including DJing and illustrating - my primary passion lies in acting. I received rigorous training at the Vancouver Academy of Dramatic Arts and have since performed in prestigious theaters such as Theater Around The Corner, Moravian Theater Olomouc, Theater DiGoknu, and Mlada Scena II. Through unwavering dedication and hard work, I continue to hone my craft and push myself to new heights in pursuit of artistic excellence.
