Behave Like a Pro
Principle #3: Try behave in a way which helps you sleep proudly
A helpful goal is one which reveals clear and immediate actions
It takes the imaginative future and brings it into the present
Using last weeks exercise: My Beautiful Day (https://www.michaelsheasby.com/sam-jul-12)
We are going to ask ourselves one question…
“How does that version of me behave?”
Simple
The industry will reflect your behaviour
It can act like a mirror
And sometimes we won’t like what we see in the mirror
Most actors will let their behaviour be dictated by the industry
Make the choice to go first
Real pros don’t wait for permission or a pay check to behave the way they want
So lets remove the “when I / then I”
(“When I get the big Netflix gig, then I will behave like a pro”)
Exercise: Behaviour
Step #1: Allocate some private, uninterrupted time to scribble
Step #2: Paper, Pencil, Music maybe?
Step #3: With reference to My Beautiful Day - Ask yourself: “How does that version of me behave?”
What action do they take?
What choices do they make?
What sacrifices do they make
What decisions do they make?
What difficult conversations do they have?
What habits do they have?
What rituals do they have?
Try keep this exercise as free flowing as possible
No editing or judging
Just write until you let it all out
Let it surprise you
Let it flow wherever it goes
Step #4: Action
Choose 1-3 of the behaviours you have scribbled
Apply them now
If that means putting it in the calendar
Sending that email
Paying for it upfront
Whatever it is… do it now
I’ll give some examples
I’ve been incredibly fortunate to work with some artists at the top of our field
Here are some of the behaviours I witnessed which inspired me to make some changes
They rock up on time
They know their lines
They greet people will kindness
They are ruthless about their 30 seconds before a take
They give everything in-between “action” & “cut”
They continue to study and learn with great mentors and coaches
They take their time
They are honest, even when its uncomfortable to do so
They have the difficult conversations
They stay hydrated
They ask for help
They know their worth
They speak their truth
They protect their character
They play
They understand their characters function within the story
They are able to switch their focus on and off
They work hard, and they rest hard
They treat themselves with self care
They take care of their health
They take care of their wealth
They know everyones name on set
They give themselves permission to feel what they are feeling
They keep going
Etc etc etc
Im curious what behaviour you have witnessed which has inspired you?
so…
Set yourself up to win
Have a brainstorm of how your best self behaves
Then try behave that way
And slowly begin to feel your spine grow taller
(Side note: There is a reason I have included the word try)
Hope this helps
x