Staying Positive: How To Forget the Past and Be Our Best-Selves Before Auditioning

Auditioning can be a nightmare. We put ourselves out there, and often, (very often, in my case) we get rejected. But rejection isn't going to kill us in the most gruesome death imaginable, and it's definitely not a reflection of our worth as an artist. It's important to stay positive and motivated, even in the face of rejection. We need to humbly remember that is wasn't just about us, it was more about the role they were trying to fill, and that we have just as great of a shot next time.

Here are some tips and hacks to help you stay positive and motivated during auditioning:

1. Stay Positive: It's crucial to keep a positive mindset during auditioning. Surround yourself with positive people, practice mindfulness, and reframe from negative thoughts. Instead of thinking, "I' have to do _____," try thinking, "I' get to ______ today, and better myself for the future."

2. Keep Learning: Always look for opportunities to learn and grow as an artist. Attend workshops, take classes, and study successful artists in your field. This won't only help you improve your skills but also boost that confidence, and meet some friends along the way.

3. Set Goals: Setting goals for yourself can kick-start you to stay motivated and focused. Make sure that your goals are specific, measurable, attainable, relevant, and time-bound. Celebrate your achievements along the way to stay motivated and "treat yoself" when you think you most deserve it, even if it wasn't a success.

4. Take Care of Yourself: It sounds repetitive but self-care is essential for maintaining your mental and physical health. Make sure you get enough sleep every night, exercise regularly, eat at least a semi-healthy diet, and take breaks when you need them!

Now, let's talk about how to overcome rejection:

1. Don't Take it Personally: Remember, rejection isn't a reflection of your worth as an artist. There are many reasons why you may not have gotten the part, and most of them have nothing to do with you. Keep your chin up and keep showing your worth!

2. Learn from it: Take every rejection as an opportunity to learn and grow. Ask for feedback if possible, and use it to improve your skills and auditioning technique.

3. Keep Moving Forward: Keep pushing forward without dwelling on it, even after rejection. Keep auditioning, keep learning, and keep improving. Your breakthrough probably is just around the corner!

We also should talk about how to prepare to be our best fresh self before every audition:

1. Practice, Practice, Practice: The more you practice, the better prepared you will be for your audition. Practice your monologue, your song, or your script until you can do it in your sleep, or until your roommate throws a shoe.

2. Dress the Part: Dressing to "your nines" for your audition will boost your confidence and help you feel more prepared. Make sure you know the dress code though for the audition, and don't embarrass yourself.

3. Be Prepared: Make sure you have everything you need for your audition, including your headshot with your resume stapled to the back, and any materials required for the audition. Double-check your schedule and arrive early to give yourself time to find it and prepare.

4. Relax: Take a few deep breaths in through your nose (as if you are smelling flowers) and out through your mouth (as if you are blowing out candles), listen to some music, or meditate before your audition. Relaxing can help you focus and perform at your best.

Auditioning can be worse than a trip to the dentist, but it's pivotal to stay positive and motivated. Remember to never stop learning, set goals, take care of yourself, and keep dancing your dance. Overcoming rejection takes time, but it's important to learn from it and never stop being your original self. Preparation is key, so make sure you practice, dress appropriately, and arrive early. Good luck, and break a leg!