Do You Sometimes Want to Quit Acting Because of Negative Criticism?
Some criticism can be too much to handle and make you want to quit acting. Harsh words or plain mean comments can come from internet trolls and even from legitimate sources such as casting directors or acting coaches.
What kind of criticism are we talking about? And how should you deal with it instead of wanting to quit acting?
[Read also: 4 Ways Actors Feel Unsupported]
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Online Criticism
Online trolls can get the best of any actor and make them want to quit acting. The criticism can be of a performance or the actor as a person, such as, “If you were so great at acting you would not have voiced a political opinion.”
It may feel good for online trolls to attack someone in a way they would not dare to do in person. So, you should never take those attacks seriously.
“Keep Your Day Job”
This remark implies that the actor lacks talent and should quit acting altogether. However, many actors face rejection and criticism before achieving recognition for their talent and hard work. Moreover, this commonly used mean comment is usually given by someone who does not understand or appreciate acting. Naturally, you should not take it seriously.
“You Are The Worst Actor I Have Ever Seen”
Such a blunt and hurtful comment attacks the actor’s abilities and undermines their confidence. However, acting is subjective. What one person perceives as poor acting, another might interpret differently. Remember that opinions vary and do not define your worth as an actor.
[Read also: The Emotional Toll of Being an Undervalued Actor]
Industry Insiders
Sometimes the harsh criticism that makes you want to quit acting comes from industry insiders and peers. Casting Directors’ and coaches’ opinions are some we usually listen to. For that reason, when they have something far from nice to say, it can be hurtful and make us want to quit acting altogether.
“You Don’t Have What It Takes”
Hearing this from a coach or casting director can be devastating. It suggests that the actor lacks the skills or talent to succeed in the industry. However, not every role or opportunity will be the right fit for every actor. Rejection is a natural part of the process and doesn’t diminish your potential for success in other roles.
Moreover, an industry pro should never judge the full potential of an actor in one performance. So, if you are ever told that you do not have what it takes to succeed, know that that is a poorly expressed generalization.
“I’m Not Convinced by Your Performance”
While constructive feedback can be valuable, this comment may feel like a personal attack on your credibility and talent. Acting is a craft that requires continuous development and refinement. Instead of taking such criticism to heart, actors can use it as an opportunity to hone their skills and prepare better to nail their performances in the future.
No person’s opinion, whether from an internet troll or an industry professional, should dictate an actor’s worth or determine their future. Acting is a subjective art form: what resonates with one audience member or casting director may not resonate with another.
Furthermore, success in acting often requires:
- perseverance,
- resilience, and
- a strong sense of self-belief.
While criticism can be discouraging, actors need to maintain confidence in their abilities and continue pursuing their passion despite the negativity they may receive.
Ultimately, whether to continue pursuing acting or not should be guided by your passion, dedication, and personal goals. No one else can determine your worth or potential. And every actor deserves the chance to pursue their dreams on their terms, regardless of the criticism they may face.
[Read also: #CastMe: The Boring Factor]
How to Handle Harsh Criticism