To strive, to seek, to find, and not to yield

Tennyson’s words are a perfect mantra for any artist trying to develop a system for reaching their goals. And the more you put yourself out there the more you’ll recognize your strengths, weaknesses, and that your goals often change. 

At first, performing in little black box theaters in front of 10 or 15 people will make you happy as a clam. You'll learn a great deal about acting, make great friends, and find collaborators. 

But eventually, those same venues may not be in line with the long-term vision you have for yourself. You'll graduate to higher goals, bigger stages, and more challenging material. 

All good things.