Student Blogger: Olivia Mathis - Page 2

While participating in theatre can be beneficial as a child, as soon as you transition into pursuing a career in performing, the way you view acting has to shift. This is not to say it can’t still be a passion. In fact, that’s one of the sole reasons so many fight their way into this industry. However, as soon as you start seeking something out for monetary benefit, it certainly isn’t a hobby anymore.

I am eternally grateful to have these wonderful opportunities, but I won’t lie- being pulled in so many directions can be exhausting. The bad news is- there is no magical secret to finally having a perfect work/life balance. I know in my experience, I always feel like there aren’t enough hours in a day. This is why when I feel overwhelmed, I rely on methods that will minimize that feeling.

This semester is dissimilar from any other I’ve had, because as I’m writing about my back-to-school experiences, I’m currently in New Jersey in The Conjuring, playing Cindy Perron with RWS Entertainment. I found out that I would be leaving school to do this job at the beginning of September. As soon as I accepted the offer I quickly switched into thinking about how I would tie up as many loose ends at school as possible.

The concept of not “making it” is understandably terrifying for people who can’t imagine doing anything else but this career. These fears often spiral into comparing yourself with people who are quote-on-quote “successful”, and assuming you’re not talented enough to be like them.