7 Steps on: How to Become an Actor

Have you been harboring a secret passion? Singing show tunes in the shower? Reciting lines from your favorite films alone in your car? You may have spent the whole of your life in an entirely unrelated profession, but as countless success stories have taught us, it’s never too late to follow your dreams of becoming an actor.

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That being said, an Oscar-winning movie role isn’t just going to fall into your unsuspecting lap. Becoming an actor requires perseverance, confidence, connections, energy and practice. So how does one become the next Daniel Craig?

Step 1: Practice Mindfulness

Acting is a mentally-demanding career. Entering the psyche of your characters day-in and day-out to deliver believable performances can be taxing work. How will you know when to leave your character’s mind for your own? How will you be able to shut out external stresses and stimuli to nail your next audition? Practicing mindfulness through activities like yoga and meditation will help bolster your concentration and focus. Guided programs like Activate Your Third Eye and A Guided Meditation for Relaxation and Wellness can help you improve your focus and reduce stress, essential skills for any actor.

Step 2: Develop a Fitness Regimen

Being healthy isn’t just about looking good. Being healthy, both in mind and body, will prepare you for the long hours and physical challenges an acting role might entail. Most acting jobs are physically exhausting and require a lot of energy. Join a gym or try home workout programs and fun dance videos that build stamina and burn fat so you can take on whatever challenges your new career brings.

Step 3: Watch Movies

This might be the most fun homework you’ll ever have: watch movies. It’s important to observe skilled thespians at work. Watch must-sees like “The Godfather” and “Sophie’s Choice.” Take notes and try to emulate actors who have made it big. You can even leave your living room couch and make regular visits to your local theater to note how your favorite actors do what they do so well.

Step 4: Educate Yourself

You don’t need to go to drama school to become a successful actor. There are plenty of celebrities that have made it to the silver screen without formal training. To supplement an official education, there are a multitude of online resources where industry professionals divulge trade secrets and tips for aspiring folk like you.

Step 5: Film Yourself

It’s time to get comfortable in front of a camera! Start by filming yourself and reciting lines alone in front of your very own home setup. You can even invite a friend over to ‘operate’ the camera while you act. We recommend investing in an affordable tripod like this one or even purchasing a phone tripod to get started.

Step 6: Audition, Audition, Audition

As an aspiring actor, it’s important to follow your ABA’s: always be auditioning. Acting is a competitive field and auditions are filled with people just like you. That’s why it’s important to constantly scan casting calls and apply for a variety of jobs. After all, the more you audition, the higher your chances are of eventually landing a role. Frequently auditioning will also help build your confidence around industry professionals as well as give you the exposure you need with casting directors and fellow actors.

Step 7: Never Give Up

Just remember, acting is not a sprint, it’s a marathon. And marathon runners don’t jump into a twenty-six mile race having never run more than a mile. Like any endeavor, acting takes discipline and patience, courage and unfaltering spirit. Sometimes, all it takes is an inspiring shirt to remind you that anything and everything is possible with hard work and determination.