You Can Want Something Without Needing It

Think of the first time you tried asking out that guy or girl you really liked. You may have found yourself stumbling over words, trying too hard to be funny, and more or less making an ass of yourself. Hey, it happens. 

Courting a partner can be a lot like auditioning. A sense of "neediness" can be sensed from a mile away. 

During my time as a casting reader I could tell, which actors led meaningful lives "off-stage." It was clear they wanted the part but would be just fine if it went to someone else. They were so fulfilled personally that their happiness or sense of self-worth didn't hinge on being cast in a show. In other words, their acceptance of themselves wasn't contingent about validation from others. Now that's attractive.

I learned the importance of not driving yourself crazy after an audition, rehashing in your head what you could of, should of, or might have done differently. Instead, the seasoned pros taught me to leave it at the door and go about your day. 

You can want something without needing it.

Stamina

We all lead busy lives. There never seems to be enough hours in the day to get everything done. Even in the rare moments where it seems we have a moment to catch up with a friend, or finish up that book something tugs at us, once again demanding our attention.

After completing another week of intense teacher training and still finding some way to pursue my creative projects, I'm appreciating more and more the importance of mental, emotional, spiritual, and physical stamina. 

Coasting on fumes for a while might seem like a nice trick at first, but I assure you it's not sustainable. Your body may be up, but your focus will wane and the quality of your work will plummet. 

Self-care is crucial to the well-being of an artist. It entails eating right, getting enough rest, protecting your mind from a toxic environment, and having a strong "why." The need to take care of ourselves seems painfully obvious, but as someone once said, "What's easy to do is easy not to do."

Prioritize your health otherwise nothing else matters.

Nobody Lives Forever

I can think of no greater motivator to go out and do the things you dream of doing than being in touch with your mortality. Nobody lives forever. 

It may be a painfully obvious fact, but I'd argue one most people don't consider enough, or aren't in touch with.

To really understand life's fickle and short nature (and not in some ominous way) can positively add a bounce to your step and inspire you to begin now rather than later.