Rejection In Acting: The All Too Common Fear

Rejection. Every actor dreads it. The prospect of attending one audition after another, with a limited chance of a callback. The unanswered emails sent to agents hoping one will represent you. Criticism from

• coaches,
• directors, or
• fellow actors

for our performance skills. The list of rejection possibilities can all be too much to handle.

The result is a feeling of burnout, boredom, and demotivation. But with the right outlook and a few strategies, actors can turn these unproductive feelings into energizing inspiration. In this blog post, we will explore rejection in acting and how actors can overcome the fear of it.

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The Challenge

Rejection is an ever-present fear for many actors. Some handle it by considering it part of the journey. Under rejections are failed auditions, long periods of unemployment, lack of self-confidence, and even struggles to find representation. For many, rejection feels like an inevitable hurdle. With the right mindset and attitude, you can navigate the ups and downs of any rollercoaster career path. In this piece, you will learn tips on how to cope with the fear of rejection

The challenge is to shift the mindset and reject the idea of rejection itself. Refuse to feel rejected. Understand that, for each audition, there is only one job. Rather than rejecting you, they are making a difficult choice among many talented actors to consider for the role. Taking common obstacles of your acting journey as rejection is only going to drain your energy.

[Read also: The Power of Performance: How Acting Can Inspire Change]

Rejection Mindset

When grappling with fear or rejection, it is essential to remember that almost nothing in this business is personal. Part of the creative process is to be accepted or turned down for an actor who is better for the role. Most of the time, they are better not because of their talent. They fit the role better due to a personal characteristic or skill that matches the vision of the director better. It is like being a piece of a puzzle. Sometimes you will be the missing piece. Sometimes it will be someone else.

Developing a resilient mindset and learning to be comfortable with that is key. To combat the feeling of rejection, try to focus on what you can learn from the experience. Analyze and reflect on the situation and see if there are improvements you can make. Enjoy that experience by connecting with the people you meet because of the opportunity to audition. Having a growth mindset will help you to bounce back from rejection and increase your chances of success in the future.

[Read also: The Most Common Misconceptions About Casting]

How to Approach Auditions 

This is how actors should approach auditions. First, take them for what they are: an opportunity for casting directors to see as many actors as they have for a specific project. Secondly, be fully present. From your preparation to your performance, this is your opportunity to present the character however you see them, with your creative choices. That is what they want from actors: their unique take on a character. Finally, let yourself have fun.

Actors forget that performing is playing. And that is the magic we bring to the casting room. Allow yourself to enjoy your moment. Casting directors always look forward to seeing your talent. They want you to enjoy the process. So, enjoy the process.

[Read also: The Mindset Shift That Can Help You Overcome Audition Fails] 

Create Connections 

For each audition opportunity, remember how lucky you are to even get to meet that casting director. Keep in touch with them by sending a thank you note or following them on social media. Like with any business, in acting you should create connections. It may take years for you to build relationships in the business. So, keep track of your contacts, from their name to how you met.

[Read also: Industry Pros Actors Must Network With]  

Conclusion

Reject the idea of rejection. Approach auditions as a fun part of the business. Use every opportunity to audition to create connections. Your mindset is everything. Fear of rejection does not have to be part of it.

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At Teacup of Wisdom, we share knowledge and insights about the entertainment industry from the actor’s point of view to inspire and empower your acting journey.