Beyond The 4th Wall - Blog 003 - Why Compare Yourself To Jennifer Lawrence?

Two of the most casual notes actors receive are (1) Focus, and (2) Stop Comparing Yourself To Others. 

Easier said than done -- considering that it may have been easier back in the day when social media did not exist and/or it was not so rampant. 

So, as much as we all support each other as actors (or creative-types), I think it is best not to look at smart phone videos and Instagram photos of theatrical & commercial sets our friends & colleagues are at -- when they are the same theatrical & commercial projects we auditioned for weeks earlier.  We're all human so we shouldn't be faulted to think, feel and react this way.  

We're with you all by supporting you in spirit but, for me, I'd like to keep a clear & positive mindset -- knowing you're opening doors for the rest of us.

Jennifer Lawrence's career is one example.  Ever since she won for Best Supporting Actress for her role in "Silver Linings Playbook" at the 85th Annual Academy Awards and Best Actress for the same role at the Independent Spirit Awards, not just people took notice, her peers -- the actors -- took great notice which is a natural thing to do.  Seeing her real and genuine reactions from beginning to end.  She climbed that natural ladder from background actor to TV costar to TV guest star to TV series regular to independent films to blockbusters and onto to awards & accolades -- in such a very short time but, not overnight.

But, with that, I see my peers starting to compare themselves to her.  Don't do that.  It's toxic to do so.  You're only going to create more obstacles in your journey.  Every actors' journey is different so, just enjoy the path you're on (no matter how long it takes).  Follow your own yellow brick road.  Just note it and move on.  That's what we actors have to do in order to enjoy the process.

Okay, I'm done with the cliches but, you get my point.  Good, because I have an audition to go to.

'Nuff said!

 - Edwin A. Santos, Beyond The 4th Wall, Blog 003, 3/5/13