Pivoting From Acting Knowledge to Gut Decisions

As a working actor, naturally, you take acting classes to master the skills needed for the venues where you’re currently auditioning — and where you’d like to audition in the future.

You study and become the best that you can be to keep sharp, keep your creative juices flowing, and give better and more confident auditions.

When I participate in panel discussions where actors can ask questions, I notice that most questions aren’t about acting techniques. Instead, they focus on decisions that require trusting your instincts. There are, of course, no classes for that, and no one can provide definitive answers to those kinds of questions.

Since there are no straightforward yes-or-no answers to these questions — and no certainty about the results of one choice over another — you have to rely on your instincts, grounded in intuition or a gut feeling.

After having intrinsic knowledge of a situation, instead of making determinations based on trial and error, your decisions have to be more speculative than scientific and the outcome is more uncertain. As an actor, you’ll encounter many of these situations; after all, you didn’t choose to be a mathematician — you chose a creative path.

Let’s explore some of these questions and add insights. You’ll find that the answers remain uncertain, and ultimately, after reflection, you’ll need to rely on your instincts to guide you.

Insights: Lessons from Terry Berland, CSA

Before relocating for acting opportunities, assess lifestyle preferences, existing relationships, and the types of projects in potential markets (LA, NY, Atlanta). Trust your instincts when choosing the best location for your career.

Financially prepare for the transition from a day job to full-time acting by saving money and budgeting, considering the fluctuating nature of acting income. Reflect on your career goals to determine the right timing.

When faced with competing project offers, weigh script quality, director preference, resume enhancement, and overall satisfaction. Trust your intuition to choose the project that feels right for your career trajectory.

I am thinking of moving to LA, NY or Atlanta. I think there might be better opportunities for me there. Should I leave where I am and make the move and which market should I move to?

Consider which lifestyle you will like better, where you know people, and research what kind of projects are being done in each area.

When should I quit my day job?

Acting income is unpredictable. Have enough money saved for a certain amount of time and plan out a budget. Prepare yourself mentally for ebbs and flows of income and define what it means to be a working actor (refer back to my blog on What Defines A Working Actor).

Which take should I submit?

You have two takes, you know they are both good. One might be a bit broader than the other, or one might be more character than the other. You are in a good place if you know one choice is not natural just to be safe.

The role doesn’t pay much, and taking it would make me unavailable for auditions and other potential bookings.

Identify why you want to do it. The reason might be the role is a stretch for you, or you have never done a role like this and you want to showcase this range.

Should I take a role I am uneasy with?

Look at what is making you uneasy. Is it too much of a stretch or will it be detrimental to your reputation?

Should I write a “thank you” note? Will that make me look desperate, or trying too hard to please?

Take a look at the reasons you are writing the note. If it comes from an authentic place of gratitude, you will know what to do.

I am offered two projects at the same time. Which one should I take?

Evaluate your opportunities. Which script do you like the best, which director would you rather work with, which will be better for your resume or which project will you be happier doing?

I listen to the director. I have two ideas and I have to quickly make a decision, which way do I go?

Tap into your confidence as an actor and remind yourself you are in a creative endeavor; there is no wrong way.

How do you decide by trusting your gut?

First, recognize that in a creative field, gut decisions are a real and valuable part of the process. Then, tune into the inner voice, whisper or feeling that can guide you. For decisions that don’t require an immediate answer, give yourself time — sleep on it, revisit the question, and pay attention to what your feelings are telling you. This process may take a few rounds, so be patient with yourself.

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