VP's BLOG: Debbie Downers

BroadwayWorld.com is excited to introduce its newest blogger - VP Boyle!

VP BOYLE is one of the most sought after Broadway audition and life coaches for professionals in New York City and works with actors at every level across the country to spread his irreverent approach to theatrical wellness. VP currently serves as the creator and Chair of the New York Film Academy's new cutting-edge Musical Theatre & Film Conservatory Program. The two-year program merges conservatory musical theatre training with Broadway professionals and an intensive acting on film curriculum that culminates with an original movie musical film project.

Check out a quick introduction video to the program byclicking HERE.

You can also download a flyer with some featured faculty by clicking HERE.

Talent auditions are being held in New York City with an exclusive workshop for applicants on Saturday, August 21st. To register and learn more about how to participate in this workshop, click HERE.

If you want the sauce to simmer, you have to turn up the heat. I'm not really talking about temperature, you know. However, I really think that actors fall into three groups:

1. Proactive / Vibrant / Committed
2. Righteous / Waiting / Envious
3. Lazy / Bitter / Toxic

It's a fair scale really. All three "actor groups" have their ups-and-downs in the biz, but all three navigate them in different ways. Make a list of your ten closest actor friends and see which category you would place them in based on their worldview. If the majority is in the lower groups, you might consider the impact they are having on YOU. It is a well-known (and proven) fact that people are as financially successful as their five closest friends. One could legitimately apply that to artistic pursuits as well. The delicious irony here is that Proactive / Vibrant / Committed people tend to inspire each other to greater heights personally and professionally. The other two "downer groups" turn everything into pure fatigue over time. If you do a legitimate self-assessment and believe yourself to be a Debbie Downer #2 or #3, get off your ass and do some personal work.

Not sure? Ask five of YOUR closest biz friends and see where they would categorize you. It might validate you or sting a whole heck of a lot, but it could lead to some improved outcomes. Remember that feedback is not law, it is a subjective snapshot at this time and place. You are not your history. You are who you wake up today and decide to be. You are who you intend to become through powerful, creative outcomes. When you are a gazillion years old and mentally processing (or writing) your memoirs, what would you like to remember? A decade can pass like a speeding train. So can your life.

Do something today that is focused on a brilliant and juicy outcome that you really, really, really want. That in and of itself is worry-free and will keep you in good company with people who make it happen and enjoy the ride along the way.

Live who you are. Love what you do.

XOXO VP