Dealing with rejection is a necessary evil in the entertainment business. Our brains know this, it is common knowledge. But there are times when our hearts just can’t take another “NO.” Sometimes the inner artist in us needs to be reminded of how to positively and proactively deal with rejection. So here are some reminders of what to remember when feeling deflated!

After a particularly hard acting class… Actors are constantly reminded of the areas we fall short in. It is hard, but it is often how we grow. If you are paying to be in class, you are a dedicated professional who is committed to becoming the best actor you can be. That is something to be proud of! And it is time and money well spent if the feedback and criticism you are getting will lead to more bookings and successes in your future. Acknowledge the growing pains, and then vow to use the info to become a more bad ass performer. 

After not getting the part… Ouch, this is a hard one. And one that we sometimes have to mourn the loss of. But once you’ve allowed yourself to cry about the role over a latte with a friend, what to do next? Remember what you already know, that casting can come down to any number of small things. Maybe you reminded the casting director of her stubborn brother-in-law. Maybe the male you were to be paired with is shorter than you and the director didn’t like that aesthetic. Maybe by the time you got into the room, casting had settled on another actor. There are so many variables out of our control, as hard as it is, we can’t take casting decisions to heart. If you didn’t book it, wasn’t yours to be had. Focus on your dream role still waiting for you! 

After not being signed to an agency… An agent can love you, but not have space for you on their roster. What does this mean exactly? If an agent represents someone that is very similar in type to you, regardless of how talented you are, they will not/should not represent you. Taking you on would be a conflict for them and take submissions away from their current client who is also a moody 40s balding man, Asian teen heart throb, you fill in the blank. So if you aren’t signed after a fab meeting with an agency, be thankful that you aren’t tied to an agent who has another client they would be submitting in lieu of you! 

And a final reminder that many times the constant ups & downs of the biz that make us crazy are the very things that keep us so excited to stay in the entertainment field. So know it’s going to be a bumpy ride, but be happy that you are one of the few brave enough to ride this amazing roller coaster! 

Break legs! 
Megan