What is it about the ever-mighty Entertainment Industry that makes people flock to Los Angeles to be a “star?” Making millions of dollars and leading the red carpet glamorous life? Topping the cover of popular magazines? Stalking paparazzi at every turn?

“I’m following my dream to act,” say most actors when they relocate to Los Angeles. Unfortunately, they don’t realize the acting part is the easier part -- it’s the other nonsense associated with finally getting to where you are living your dream - that is challenging element.

 

The double-edged sword syndrome: “How can I get work if I don’t have an agent?” “How can I get an agent when I don't get work?” “How do I get in the unions when I can’t get a union gig because I’m not union?”

 

Hundreds of dollars go out to headshots, acting classes, college educations in the arts, postage and gym memberships; yet most actors are barely making ends meet so they can afford to work a job that is audition friendly.

 

It’s a harsh reality the Entertainment Industry’s foundation is based on crushed dreams... only building you up, just to tear you down. Hollywood is a town shaped on negative energy, nepotism, backstabbing competitiveness, psychotic neurotic behavior, and horrible traffic and yet, its softer side reveals so much beautiful creativity breathing its very essence, just waiting to be discovered within the visionaries, artists surrounding these pessimistic walkways.

 

Experience and time will show you there are no rules or parameters to this industry. Do or be done. Hard work, determination, perseverance and self-sacrifice should drive each person who truly has the passion to act. To actually manifest your destiny is a task all its own. “Be patient” and “give yourself time” – are phrases often spoken by teachers to students who believe in over-night success.

 

The best way to make it in this town is to not take it seriously or personally. Once you know how LA can beat you down, use it to your best advantage. Surrender to the dream beast. You must search for the courage to embark on creativity that is often not rewarded or appreciated. Be an individual and don’t let a town or any one human being define who you are going to be.

 

What courage and passion, determination and tenacity each person has to possess to constantly put his or her emotions on the line; to constantly discover more and more about themselves. What a beautiful gift you can give yourself and what a contribution you can pass on to others.

 

Learn everything that you can about film, television, and theatre. Work behind the scenes, thereby gaining an appreciation for everything and everyone that makes a film, a television show or is involved with a theatre performance. Write a monologue, produce it, direct it and find the place to showcase it. Understand the whole package.

This town can be so lonely – as long as you keep your intentions real and full of light, it can work for you in ways you’ve never imagined. Always turn a negative into a positive and keep your dreams alive. Never take NO for an answer… and always… always be true to yourself.

 

Bottom line is…it’s all in you. How do you want to live your life? What makes you happy? What is your passion? Where do you want to go from here? What legacy do you want to leave behind? 

 

What's your DREAM!? 

 

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