Practicing Patience: What to Do While You Wait
The Virtue of Patience as a New Voice Actor
When you’re starting out as a new voice actor, it can be an exciting experience! You’ll have all the feels - excitement about using your voice, anticipation of sharing your work (and getting paid!!). However, amidst the hustle and bustle of honing your craft and seeking out opportunities, it's crucial to remember the importance of patience—both with yourself and with the process. When thinking of having patience with yourself here are some things to keep in mind:
Patience with Yourself:
As you dive into the world of voice acting, you may encounter moments of frustration, self-doubt, and impatience. You might find yourself grappling with new techniques, navigating unfamiliar territory, or facing rejection along the way. In these moments, it's essential to remind yourself that learning any skill takes time, dedication, and perseverance.
Embrace the Learning Curve: Every voice actor, from seasoned professionals to newcomers, experiences a learning curve. Whether you're mastering vocal techniques, refining your acting skills, or familiarizing yourself with industry tools and technology, remember that progress is a journey, not a destination. Celebrate your successes, no matter how small, and be gentle with yourself during setbacks.
Practice Makes Progress: Just as Rome wasn't built in a day, mastering the art of voice acting requires consistent practice and dedication. Set aside time each day to hone your craft, whether it's through vocal exercises, script readings, or improvisation. Embrace every opportunity to grow and learn, knowing that each moment invested in your craft brings you one step closer to your goals.
Cultivate Self-Compassion: In the fast-paced world of voice acting, it's easy to fall into the trap of comparison and self-criticism. Remember that each voice is unique, and your journey is entirely your own. Be kind to yourself during moments of self-doubt, and acknowledge the progress you've made along the way. Cultivate a mindset of self-compassion, knowing that mistakes are opportunities for growth, not indicators of failure.
Patience with the Process:
Beyond mastering your craft, navigating the world of voice acting also entails patience in seeking and securing opportunities. As you reach out to potential clients, audition for roles, and await responses, it's essential to recognize that the process is multifaceted and often unpredictable. Keep these ideas in mind when thinking about not just your part in the process, but the client’s perspective, too.
Understand the Client's Perspective: When seeking work and booking projects, it's crucial to empathize with the client's position. They may be juggling multiple projects, coordinating schedules, or navigating unforeseen challenges behind the scenes. Recognize that delays in communication or responses are often not a reflection of your talent or worth but rather a part of the intricate process of collaboration. Do not stress or agonize over slow communication - there’s a lot going on behind the scenes.
Maintain Professionalism: While waiting for responses from clients or audition results, it's essential to uphold a professional demeanor at all times. Avoid becoming disheartened by delays or rejections, and instead focus on continuously improving your craft and seizing new opportunities. Remember that patience, professionalism, and persistence are key traits of successful voice actors.
Practice Gratitude: Amidst the uncertainty of the audition process and project negotiations, cultivate a sense of gratitude for every opportunity that comes your way. Whether it's a callback for an audition, positive feedback from a client, or landing a role, take a moment to celebrate your achievements and express gratitude for the journey thus far.
To Sum it all Up For You:
Be patient with yourself as you grow and learn, and be patient with the process as you seek out opportunities and collaborations. Embrace each moment with resilience, gratitude, and an unwavering commitment to your craft. Remember that you and your clients are working together to bring a project to life. Have patience and respect for the process. Are you ready to get your voiceover career started? Then check out my voiceover training program, Make Money with Your Mouth right here! Unlock your unique voice and build a successful freelancing career with my 7-week training program, designed to boost your confidence and provide practical tools and resources. Whether you're a beginner or have some experience, this comprehensive course will empower you to thrive in the voiceover industry. Be encouraged!