Why You Want to Pursue A Life Outside of Work

It is fitting that today’s topic is about exploring the world outside of acting or your other creative pursuits. Because let’s face it, we’re living in uncertain times, where everything can change in an instant.

And for all of us creatives—with the impending writer’s strike and entertainment industry coming to a grinding halt—it is more important than ever to pursue things that are meaningful to you that have absolutely nothing to do with the industry.

You’ll Be More Creative

I’m sure you’ve heard the expression, “Art imitates life.” If all your time is spent focused on acting classes, auditions, self-tapes, impressing this CD or that producer, social media followers, your next gig, and your next gig, and your next gig… where is your inspiration coming from?

Artists draw from life, from real experience and connection with the world. So don’t wait to take that vacation or spend time with your friends or learn a new skill. Pursue a rich and joyful life outside of acting, and that zest for life will also show up in your work.

I cannot tell you how many times I’ve planned a getaway and suddenly a great opportunity pops up. It’s not magic though! It’s because I’m not sitting by the phone waiting to hear from my agent; I’m busy enjoying my life!

You’ll Feel Better

It should go without saying that overworking yourself is not good for your health. I don’t care how many “that girl” tutorials you watch or 5-hour work week productivity books you read, the goal should not be to cram more than you can handle into even fewer hours. 

I am all about slowing down and listening to the rhythm of your body. 

When we aren’t taking care of ourselves and honoring what our body needs, everything feels soooo much heavier and harder to do. Not to mention, spending all day, every day concentrating on work is monotonous. Our brains and bodies need stimulation and FUN!

And all the elements of a full, rich life—relationships, hobbies, community, charity, rest, and reflection— are also activities that boost our mood and lift our spirits. 

You’ll Be More Resilient

If we have other aspects of our life that enrich and fulfill us and keep us curious and growing as individuals, then we experience setbacks in a different way too.

For example, when we don’t book that role, we don’t experience it as some extreme loss in our life because we have other things going on that fulfill us. Your life is full, so you feel like you have purpose and meaning that isn’t totally tied up in your creative pursuits.

So, I want to know! What is meaningful to you outside your artistic endeavors? Please share in the comments below.