Acting : How I Changed My Audition Strategy After 40 Years of Acting by Aaron Marcus

Hi, Aaron Marcus. I've turned down writing jobs and opportunities. I used to take everything, but I got burned out.

Thanks for sharing, Maurice. What made you decide to turn some things down?

You're welcome, Aaron Marcus. I turned things down so I wouldn't be working on too many projects. And sometimes the projects didn't pay enough for the work needed.

That is interesting. Too many things at once can make it hard to do your best for each one. And, by taking on very low paying jobs at this point in your career, might cut you out of working on a better project - since you already committed yourself. Thank you so much for sharing these insights.

Thank you for sharing Aaron Marcus . I came to a similar realization only in the past couple of years. If I do things because I need the money, then I will always need the money. And there are other things to factor in like, my time, my gas, even my mental health. I have turned down gig work too because it's not worth my time. A thing to consider as you pointed out, what will I have to turn down to take this job? Also, you did touch on this a bit, what is it going to cost me outside of work? Not expenses, but as actors who most of us are day players, what work do I need to put into this role in preparation? We don't get paid for that. Essentially we work off the clock. What I believe in is abundance. Taking a job because I need the money, implies scarcity, that they may not be another job anytime soon- that has always been detrimental to me mental health- but if I follow what brings me peace, they Universe will provide something better.

You're welcome, Aaron Marcus. Great points, and I've experienced them both when I used to take every job and opportunity.

Thank you so much, Suzanne. I really appreciate the way you share such wonderful and personal information here so we can all learn from you. Thanks again.

Aaron Marcus I applaud you deciding to turn down those jobs. I wonder how it that you decided to do that now after so long of not turning down jobs? What came to mind to me is how much self-worth. Whilst I haven't turned down any acting jobs, I have recently been turning down coaching clients who want to pay by insurers who will not honour my full fee. Like Suzanne Bronson I believe I have to stay true to my own worth if I want to attract abundance. When i'm ever in a position to start looking for acting jobs (when my kids are a bit older) let's see if I have the same ethos

Thank you, Alexandra. One of the reasons for accepting just about every job that was offered was to make sure I earned enough for both insurance and to reach the amount needed to receive a pension. Once the pension goal was achieved, I was able to relax a little.

As a Union actor, it is really hard to receive a pension. There are a some exceptions, but it typically takes 10 years of earning a specific amount per year. That is very hard to do. So, that is one of the reasons why I felt a little more comfortable turning things down.

Alexandra, I always love ready your ideas and thoughts.

Aaron Marcus that makes sense. As a self-employed person I know how illusive that pension can feel It's refreshing and inspiring to read about an actor who has worked as much as you and gained a pension as a result. Im glad i know you and thanks for your kind words.

Thank you so much for your kind words.