"99% is a Bitch, but 100% is a Breeze"- Jack Canfield

The Power of Full Commitment in Screen Acting

How much energy are you wasting by not fully committing?

When you’re 99% committed to a role or a scene, you’re still holding back, and that self-awareness can create tension and stiffness. But when you fully surrender and commit 100%, you become fully immersed and free to explore the character and the scene without self-doubt or hesitation.

In the world of acting, the difference between a good performance and a great one often comes down to the level of commitment. It’s tempting to think that 99% commitment is enough, but this small margin can significantly impact your performance and the energy you bring to the scene.

The Pitfall of 99% Commitment

When you’re 99% committed, there’s always a part of you that’s holding back. This reservation can manifest as tension, stiffness, or a lack of authenticity in your performance. That lingering self-awareness can act as a barrier between you and your character, preventing you from fully immersing yourself in the role. This hesitation can make you feel like a fraud, undermining your confidence and the believability of your portrayal.

The Freedom of 100% Commitment

On the other hand, when you commit 100%, you let go of all self-doubt and hesitation. You surrender fully to the character and the scene, allowing yourself to explore every nuance and emotion without holding back. This complete immersion not only enhances your performance but also frees up energy that would otherwise be wasted on self-consciousness.

Embracing the Embarrassment

As Joaquin Phoenix aptly puts it, “acting is embarrassing.” This statement highlights the vulnerability and courage required to commit fully. Acting involves putting yourself out there, risking embarrassment, and embracing the uncertainty of the moment. When you commit 100%, you embrace this vulnerability and transform it into a powerful, authentic performance.

Surprising Yourself

By fully committing, you open yourself up to new possibilities and discoveries within your character and the scene. This level of dedication can lead to surprising and profound moments that elevate your performance to new heights. You might find yourself expressing emotions or uncovering aspects of the character that you hadn’t anticipated, enriching both your portrayal and the audience’s experience.

Conclusion

So, how much energy are you wasting by not fully committing? The answer is likely more than you realise. By holding back even slightly, you create tension and miss out on the freedom and authenticity that comes with full commitment. Embrace the embarrassment, commit 100%, and you may well surprise yourself with the depth and power of your performance.

“Sometimes you need to go slow to go fast”- Jess Olson

Finding Balance: The Power of Slowing Down in a Fast-Paced World

If you feel overwhelmed by a busy schedule and a constant barrage of “shoulds,” it can lead to burnout, stress… and pushed, tense, shitter acting.

Sometimes, it can be powerful to intentionally slow down (which is different from avoiding or procrastinating).

By taking time to prioritise tasks and focus on what truly matters, you can create a clear, manageable plan. Choose thoughtful, aligned decisions and calm your nervous system stress, ultimately allowing for more efficient progress and better results in your craft, career, and personal life.

When the demands of your acting career start piling up, it’s easy to fall into the trap of constantly pushing yourself to meet every expectation. This relentless pace can lead to a feeling of burnout and stress that affects not only your well-being but also the quality of your performances. It’s important to recognise the signs of overwhelm and take a step back before it impacts your craft.

One of the most effective strategies to combat this is to intentionally slow down. This doesn’t mean you’re avoiding your responsibilities or procrastinating; it’s about taking a deliberate pause to reassess and refocus.

Prioritising What Truly Matters

Start by identifying what tasks and goals are most important to you. Not everything on your to-do list holds the same weight. By prioritising, you can focus your energy on what will have the most significant impact on your career and personal life. This approach helps you create a clear, manageable plan, reducing the chaos and confusion that comes with trying to do everything at once.

Making Thoughtful, Aligned Decisions

When you’re constantly rushing, decision-making can become impulsive and scattered. By slowing down, you give yourself the space to make thoughtful, aligned choices. This can lead to better outcomes and more satisfaction in your work and life. You’ll be able to say no to the things that don’t serve you and yes to the opportunities that truly align with your goals.

Calming Your Nervous System

Stress not only affects your mental state but also your physical body. When you’re stressed, your nervous system is on high alert, which can hinder your ability to perform at your best. Slowing down and practicing mindfulness techniques can help calm your nervous system, leading to a more relaxed and present state of mind. This, in turn, enhances your ability to connect with your roles and deliver more authentic performances.

Efficient Progress and Better Results

Ultimately, by taking the time to slow down, you can achieve more efficient progress. You’ll be working smarter, not harder, and the quality of your work will reflect this. Your craft will benefit from a more focused and deliberate approach, and your career will thrive as a result.

Remember, it’s not about doing less; it’s about doing what you do with more intention and clarity. Embrace the power of slowing down and watch as it transforms your acting, career, and personal life for the better.​⬤