Seasons Greetings, Voicer!
It’s December, and nobody asked us if we were ready, did they? đ
As we bring 2024 to a close I want to remind you that, “You didn’t come this far, only to come this far.” -Unknown
This quote in particular has become one of my secret weapons anytime self-doubt creeps in, and it’s helped me press on. I hope it helps you too. There’s a little voice inside all of us that talks us into and out of – everything. The big question is – which voice do we listen to? Which voice do we trust? Well, whenever I trust the one in my heart or where my innermost thoughts take me when I daydream, I seem to end up right where I’m supposed to be. Happy. But we all know there is a practical bridge between dreams and reality. It’s called showing up. This is the part where I could tell you all about working hard, consistency, making sacrifices, blah-blah-blah… But instead, let’s remember that showing up for our ambitions and passions can be fun. How we decide to tackle anything we want for ourselves is a choice. Sometimes our adult brains suck all of the adventure out of our new ideas and pursuits and we forget how exciting it is to lean into uncovering what we’re truly capable of! Oh, hello there limitless human. Possibility is callin’ or textin’ or emailin’… or whatever. And I know you have a phone in your hand! đ
So, for my final Moatsivation this year, I wanted to share some loving reminders about embracing the art of voice acting and lifing.Â
1) Don’t expect to love every script you read, every performance you create and every decision you make. We’re in the business finding the meaning in scripts and life’s moments, self expression and exploration. So, be curious rather than judgmental.
2) Think helpful, useful thoughts.
3) Let yourself play. Let yourself go. Free flow is the opposite of control. So surrender more and give yourself permission to color outside the lines. Messy authenticity is beautiful. And inspiring.
4) Voice acting (and lifin’) aren’t supposed to be easy. The more we do it, the more we figure out and the better we get.
5) You are the magic. You are the special sauce. You are the weird green potato chip. Bring stories and characters to life like only YOU can. The world needs YOU.
6) Detachment is freeing. Losing sleep over the outcome of auditions or worrying about what other people think about you or your talent or your dreams is like standing in concrete. Be light on your feet and keep moving forward – for you.
7) Get real with yourself and actually do the work – or don’t. Decide and do. The thought-loop of maybe will zap your energy and steal your precious time.
8) Be brave enough to really go for it (whatever it is). Even if your hands are sweaty, your mouth’s as dry as the Mojave Desert and your heart feels like it’ll burst through your chest.
9) “The magic you’re looking for is in the work you’re avoiding.” -Unknown (Ouch. This one stung, but I needed to hear it). Did you? đŹ
10) Look in the mirror, baby. Everything you are right now is the sum total of every chance you’ve taken on yourself so far. Thank yourself for that. (Cue the applause SFX)! đ
In closing, I love knowing you, creating and growing with you. It’s hard to put into words just how rewarding it is getting to share in your talents and dreams. It’s an honor, really. So, thank you from the bottom of my heart for allowing me to be a part of YOUR story.
Thank you, 2024. It’s only onward and upward from here. â¤ď¸
