Have you had the panic attack that this is the last month of 2013?! Ahhh...because I have, and at times, it can be overwhelming and other at times it can be invigorating.
With a new year coming, comes the Holiday shopping, Holiday parties, New Year's resolutions, and looking back at what the year offered. Which combined together can sometimes lead to a major panic attack where I am lying on the couch watching episode after episode of Friends while finishing that Holiday pie and an occasional beer or glass of wine.
However, as this year comes winding down I challenge you to REMEMBER
Remember that you are an artist and that your voice is important in this artistic community now and in the future.
Remember that you have accomplished so much this year...while sometimes it may not feel like that big budget movie, that Broadway contract, or number one hit single, you as an artist have your own goals and successes on a daily basis and it is extremely necessary to personally acknowledge your own successes within your journey.
Remember to breathe. What...when is there time? You are not alive if you don't breathe and if you don't allow yourself that sole moment to exist you cannot breathe life into your craft.
Remember to take that risk. Sometimes I definitely fall short in this area. But I challenge you to take a risk in these next few weeks of December rather than waiting to start in the New Year. Life is too short to play the waiting game. Get out there and jump and take that risk. Connect with someone new, wear a crazy Holiday sweater if it makes you feel good, go to that audition you don't really want to go to and try something new, take that day trip you wanted to take all year....if you jump...you might fly..... and then it definitely will be a December to Remember!!!
As always Remember,
Live for Today, Laugh Often, and Love This Moment!
Patty G. McGee
Wednesday, December 4, 2013
Friday, October 25, 2013
The Road Less Traveled
As an artist, it is sometimes a very difficult road. Now, no one said it would be easy..... right?!!! Ughh!! And some other four letter words thrown into the mix.
If you are blessed with multiple offers at once, it is a difficult decision to decide which one to take...will I make more money doing one job? Will another job be a better creative outlet? Will I have to leave family and friends? You are very lucky if this sounds familiar.
On the other hand, there are many times where the work is limited. There are moments of self doubt, large periods of uncertainty, and moments of huge anxiety. For the artist, it sometimes is not always about the path that you once envisioned, or the one that others have planned for you. It may be a difficult road full of bumps, stumbles, and cutting yourself on a lot of overgrowth along the unbeaten path. However, when you stumble.... remember to get back up, because your artistic voice is too important not to be heard. Those minor cuts from the path become scars that remind you of where you came from and that unbearable hill that you feel like you are climbing up reminds you that there are things always worth achieving and going after.
It is also important to realize that sometimes those cuts need a little healing and those embarrassing stumbles allow you to catch your breath when you don't have the ability to realize it. You are after all human. What you are not a machine that hits that high note or hits your mark on cue?!?!
Realize those moments, and take the time for yourself in order to heal and develop a stronger artistic voice. I know it is very hard especially for me who always needs to be working on the next big thing.
However, right now, I must admit that I am in that artistic healing process at the moment. It was a long process to come to but it is much needed. I am stepping back for a moment in order to heal, breathe, and be a little human instead of letting the industry drive my intentions. In the end, my artistic voice will come back stronger than ever, and my work will have the heart and soul that is currently missing. It is definitely not the path that I envisioned and even had planned. But it is the path I am on and I am grateful for every stumble, embarrassing moment, and cut long the way. It is a path based on honesty, truth, and courage. I think Robert Frost said it best and I will leave you with this.
If you are blessed with multiple offers at once, it is a difficult decision to decide which one to take...will I make more money doing one job? Will another job be a better creative outlet? Will I have to leave family and friends? You are very lucky if this sounds familiar.
On the other hand, there are many times where the work is limited. There are moments of self doubt, large periods of uncertainty, and moments of huge anxiety. For the artist, it sometimes is not always about the path that you once envisioned, or the one that others have planned for you. It may be a difficult road full of bumps, stumbles, and cutting yourself on a lot of overgrowth along the unbeaten path. However, when you stumble.... remember to get back up, because your artistic voice is too important not to be heard. Those minor cuts from the path become scars that remind you of where you came from and that unbearable hill that you feel like you are climbing up reminds you that there are things always worth achieving and going after.
It is also important to realize that sometimes those cuts need a little healing and those embarrassing stumbles allow you to catch your breath when you don't have the ability to realize it. You are after all human. What you are not a machine that hits that high note or hits your mark on cue?!?!
Realize those moments, and take the time for yourself in order to heal and develop a stronger artistic voice. I know it is very hard especially for me who always needs to be working on the next big thing.
However, right now, I must admit that I am in that artistic healing process at the moment. It was a long process to come to but it is much needed. I am stepping back for a moment in order to heal, breathe, and be a little human instead of letting the industry drive my intentions. In the end, my artistic voice will come back stronger than ever, and my work will have the heart and soul that is currently missing. It is definitely not the path that I envisioned and even had planned. But it is the path I am on and I am grateful for every stumble, embarrassing moment, and cut long the way. It is a path based on honesty, truth, and courage. I think Robert Frost said it best and I will leave you with this.
| TWO roads diverged in a yellow wood, | |
| And sorry I could not travel both | |
| And be one traveler, long I stood | |
| And looked down one as far as I could | |
| To where it bent in the undergrowth; | 5 |
| Then took the other, as just as fair, | |
| And having perhaps the better claim, | |
| Because it was grassy and wanted wear; | |
| Though as for that the passing there | |
| Had worn them really about the same, | 10 |
| And both that morning equally lay | |
| In leaves no step had trodden black. | |
| Oh, I kept the first for another day! | |
| Yet knowing how way leads on to way, | |
| I doubted if I should ever come back. | 15 |
| I shall be telling this with a sigh | |
| Somewhere ages and ages hence: | |
| Two roads diverged in a wood, and I— | |
| I took the one less traveled by, | |
| And that has made all the difference. |
Wednesday, October 16, 2013
The Great Expectations
Do you have expectations for your life? Your Career?
You might be slightly lying if you said no.
Like many artists, we all have some vision that we hope for and plan for. However, life is more about the journey and not the destination. I know when you hit rock bottom sometimes easier said than done. Sometimes those moments where we do not meet the expectation that we set for ourselves or our family/society set for us are the moments where we reach the most clarity in our lives. We reach deep within those moments of not attaining those expectations and are forced to fully examine what we truly want out of this life we are given. Sometimes in the pain, there comes true beauty which I came to realize.
For many artists, we lead such crazy lives. Figuratively and literally. We live job to job...we take a job in South Dakota leaving behind family and friends, we take that day job that we dread in order to eat, we receive five million "no's" in hopes to have that one yes! Sound familiar. For myself, I have experienced all those things and came to to one revelation these past few weeks. What is that you ask?
I have not been truly living life and especially living in the moment since I had a certain "expectation" of what I planned my life to be. So I have stepped away from those "expectations" both as a person and an artist in order to live and fuel both me as a person and the artist. I am enjoying that ice cream and beer, or that conversation with that dear friend, or attending that family wedding (since I have missed too many because the show must go on) in order to feel more balanced as person, That in turn will make me both a more balanced artist and educator.
I have learned that is alright to let myself to let go of those "expectations" and that is part of the process. Once I did that I will truly learn and grow and the work will come.
What is one thing that you have put off because of money, time, or other pressures?
Now...allow yourself to do it! You deserve it!
As always live your life with integrity, truth, and courage and life's expectations will fall into place.
McGee
Friday, August 30, 2013
I like to move it...move it!
mo·men·tum
mōˈmentəm,mə-/
noun
- 1.PHYSICSthe quantity of motion of a moving body, measured as a product of its mass and velocity.
- 2.the impetus gained by a moving object."the vehicle gained momentum as the road dipped"As humans, there is a constant ebb and flow all around us and within us. I think we are naturally built to have a sense of movement. However, there are those many times where we all feel stuck in the mud and not moving towards the goals that we have set for ourselves.Has the momentum in your life ever felt stagnant? How did you react? How did you get the momentum going again?There have been many moments over the past five years where I have felt completely stuck. However, those moments passed and I developed into a better person because of those experiences.For any actor, there will come a time where you feel stuck. It might be not booking the job or always playing the same role. As an artist, I think it is important to have a sense of growth and movement. However, when you feel stuck, I think it is important for you to acknowledge this feeling and try to understand why you are feeling this way. Sometimes, it may be something as simple as changing your wardrobe, a different morning ritual, or trying a new activity. Know that if you feel stuck you have the power to change your situation and placing a little bit of energy out there can make the world of difference.For myself, movement has come in the form of relocating across the entire country. I have a sense anxiety and excitement but with all that, I feel the movement that is here and that will continue to flow. Sometimes jumping is all the movement you need in order to reach your dreams.Feeling stuck?! First off.... write one sentence about why you feel this way...Next write down 3 things you can do this week that are completely different from your every day routine.. Maybe grab coffee with a friend, take a new route to work, by a new shirt. Do something different because reaching out is half the battle.Reach out, jump, and get that energy that you so desperately need and crave.From the sunny West Coast,Patty G. McGee
Monday, July 29, 2013
To or not to act...that is the question
Congrats so you want to be an actor! Yes, you graduated with a four year degree or you went to a strong acting school in LA or NYC and now you have arrived. But what made you want to be an actor in the first place. It certainly cannot be because it would be the easiest choice. With about a small percentage of all Union actors working consistently, what keeps you going to that audition, taking that next class?
Why are you so desperately drawn to this art form?
Why are you an actor?
I mean really stop and think for second about what truly draws you to the craft of acting.
Stop and write out five reasons you love acting.
While for some, fame and fortune are in their eyes..... I feel for many, it is something deeper.
For myself, there is nothing like breathing life into the words that a playwright or script writer created. Thinking, feeling, moving and creating this new life. It is also so much about collaboration. As actors, we are both creators and collaborators, and in this unique art form, we create something that I believe can truly touch the soul. Laughter touches the soul, drama touches the soul, fear touches the soul and these moments and many more can be created on stage or on film. We are storytellers for generations to come.
That being said, you have a voice as an actor. One voice and only your unique voice can do what you do. Remember you are unique and try not to compare yourself to fellow actors or feel inferior to other actors. They do not have your voice or the stories that have shaped your life. Your journey is what makes you, you! I know easier said than done. But you are you, you are not someone else, someone else is someone else, you are you! Enjoy your freckles, your glasses, the part in your hair, the small chip in your tooth, the way your voice sounds, the way you blink, the way you breathe... for it is all you!
Finally, remember to bring your unique self into your work and the rest will follow. Stay true to yourself and your goals and always remember why you wanted to act in the first place. Paint the picture and tell your story in every acting moment. For those moments are both precious and genuine.
Live today in the moment in order to tell your story tomorrow.
Patrick
Why are you so desperately drawn to this art form?
Why are you an actor?
I mean really stop and think for second about what truly draws you to the craft of acting.
Stop and write out five reasons you love acting.
While for some, fame and fortune are in their eyes..... I feel for many, it is something deeper.
For myself, there is nothing like breathing life into the words that a playwright or script writer created. Thinking, feeling, moving and creating this new life. It is also so much about collaboration. As actors, we are both creators and collaborators, and in this unique art form, we create something that I believe can truly touch the soul. Laughter touches the soul, drama touches the soul, fear touches the soul and these moments and many more can be created on stage or on film. We are storytellers for generations to come.
That being said, you have a voice as an actor. One voice and only your unique voice can do what you do. Remember you are unique and try not to compare yourself to fellow actors or feel inferior to other actors. They do not have your voice or the stories that have shaped your life. Your journey is what makes you, you! I know easier said than done. But you are you, you are not someone else, someone else is someone else, you are you! Enjoy your freckles, your glasses, the part in your hair, the small chip in your tooth, the way your voice sounds, the way you blink, the way you breathe... for it is all you!
Finally, remember to bring your unique self into your work and the rest will follow. Stay true to yourself and your goals and always remember why you wanted to act in the first place. Paint the picture and tell your story in every acting moment. For those moments are both precious and genuine.
Live today in the moment in order to tell your story tomorrow.
Patrick
Wednesday, June 19, 2013
Turn that Dreaded NO to KNOW
How many times have you heard the word no before?
I am sure that as a child we wanted everything and we encountered the word no from parent, teachers, aunts, uncles, friends etc.
When you hear this word, NO, where does this word resonate within you?
For me, it hits me right in the stomach. When I was younger, I hated the word NO and tried to fight it so many times with temper tantrums, whining, and complete resistance.
However, what if sometimes in our lives, a NO in life allows us to see more clearly and KNOW exactly where we need to be.
As an actor, I think I have heard the word no 1.5 million times. I cannot begin to list the many jobs or call backs I did not receive or contracts never given. I would be lying if I said the word, NO, does not affect me. As actors, we want it all but in all reality we cannot do it all. Sometimes a NO gets us to really KNOW what we need and want in this business.
Have you ever really wanted something so bad but for whatever reason the universe just was yelling NO, in your direction? How did you react? How did you feel?
Most recently, I had signed on to do a role in an indie film with a good message and a lot of heart. Wasn't going to make millions but felt confident about making this world a better place through this piece. However, the director called and there are major scheduling changes and things would conflict with some things from my end. Therefore, we reached the conclusion that it was best for me to not be a part of the film. The universe basically said YES at first and then a gust of wind blew in, and said NO and for the first time in a while that NO did not feel like a blow. It helped me to know that there is something else that needs to be worked on or figured out in that time. It was a very liberating feeling. It helped me to get excited about the unknown future which can seem very daunting and scary.
When there is NO in your life.... breathe, listen, and then react. Most likely you will KNOW that you are completely where you need to be.
This business is a crazy one and when this business gives you many, many No's (nose), stop and smell the flowers and KNOW yourself, your craft, and your artist. Then the career need and want will grow.
"Life never seems to be the way we want it, but we live it the best way we can. There is no perfect life but we can fill it with perfect moments."
Cheers,
P.G. McGee
I am sure that as a child we wanted everything and we encountered the word no from parent, teachers, aunts, uncles, friends etc.
When you hear this word, NO, where does this word resonate within you?
For me, it hits me right in the stomach. When I was younger, I hated the word NO and tried to fight it so many times with temper tantrums, whining, and complete resistance.
However, what if sometimes in our lives, a NO in life allows us to see more clearly and KNOW exactly where we need to be.
As an actor, I think I have heard the word no 1.5 million times. I cannot begin to list the many jobs or call backs I did not receive or contracts never given. I would be lying if I said the word, NO, does not affect me. As actors, we want it all but in all reality we cannot do it all. Sometimes a NO gets us to really KNOW what we need and want in this business.
Have you ever really wanted something so bad but for whatever reason the universe just was yelling NO, in your direction? How did you react? How did you feel?
Most recently, I had signed on to do a role in an indie film with a good message and a lot of heart. Wasn't going to make millions but felt confident about making this world a better place through this piece. However, the director called and there are major scheduling changes and things would conflict with some things from my end. Therefore, we reached the conclusion that it was best for me to not be a part of the film. The universe basically said YES at first and then a gust of wind blew in, and said NO and for the first time in a while that NO did not feel like a blow. It helped me to know that there is something else that needs to be worked on or figured out in that time. It was a very liberating feeling. It helped me to get excited about the unknown future which can seem very daunting and scary.
When there is NO in your life.... breathe, listen, and then react. Most likely you will KNOW that you are completely where you need to be.
This business is a crazy one and when this business gives you many, many No's (nose), stop and smell the flowers and KNOW yourself, your craft, and your artist. Then the career need and want will grow.
"Life never seems to be the way we want it, but we live it the best way we can. There is no perfect life but we can fill it with perfect moments."
Cheers,
P.G. McGee
Wednesday, May 1, 2013
Mistaking the Mistake
Have you ever made a mistake?
How does it make you feel?
The word alone makes the pit of my stomach churn due to the perfectionist qualities that I am attempting to let go of.
For me, for a long time I wanted to always have things be perfect and when they did not go according to the plan, I felt like a let myself and other people down. I think for myself I did not want to let other people down and this fear dictated many of my actions.
As an actor, I have fallen on stage, missed entrances, forgotten lines, and as a person there could be a list a mile long. And then there are several great mishaps in the audition room...... Sound familiar? However, these occurrences onstage and off stage have guided me to new places and new people, and made me aware to be awake in the moment that is currently in front of me.
What if our mistakes are meant to happen? What if these are the things that remind us of certain things that we may be neglecting or take us to a new place that is exactly where we need to be at the moment in time?!
I think for me it about re-evaluating how you look at a mistake and take that opportunity to learn something new and appreciate why it happened.
Going back to your mistake? Did you learn anything from your mistakes in the past? What did you learn and have you taken different actions because of your mistake?
As an actor, we learn a lot by doing. However, observation is also a great tool. Looking at your own mistakes and being able to grow as both a person and an actor can be extremely useful.
Look at your mistakes today and embrace them because they will guide you to a golden opportunity tomorrow.
McGee
How does it make you feel?
The word alone makes the pit of my stomach churn due to the perfectionist qualities that I am attempting to let go of.
For me, for a long time I wanted to always have things be perfect and when they did not go according to the plan, I felt like a let myself and other people down. I think for myself I did not want to let other people down and this fear dictated many of my actions.
As an actor, I have fallen on stage, missed entrances, forgotten lines, and as a person there could be a list a mile long. And then there are several great mishaps in the audition room...... Sound familiar? However, these occurrences onstage and off stage have guided me to new places and new people, and made me aware to be awake in the moment that is currently in front of me.
What if our mistakes are meant to happen? What if these are the things that remind us of certain things that we may be neglecting or take us to a new place that is exactly where we need to be at the moment in time?!
I think for me it about re-evaluating how you look at a mistake and take that opportunity to learn something new and appreciate why it happened.
Going back to your mistake? Did you learn anything from your mistakes in the past? What did you learn and have you taken different actions because of your mistake?
As an actor, we learn a lot by doing. However, observation is also a great tool. Looking at your own mistakes and being able to grow as both a person and an actor can be extremely useful.
Look at your mistakes today and embrace them because they will guide you to a golden opportunity tomorrow.
McGee
Sunday, April 7, 2013
What's Your Plan Man?!
Simply put:
A plan is typically any diagram or list of steps with timing and resources, used to achieve an objective.
What's your objective at the moment?
You don't have one you say...well let's start somewhere. Life is about wants and needs. We all have actions and interactions with one another and in a sense you have an objective. For example, I want to be loved, I want to lose five pounds, I want to be a happier person, I want to travel more. As an actor, you always want to examine the text of a script and figure out what the character wants. Now that's your objective.
Think about the one thing that that you are striving for the most at the moment.
For myself, it's that I want to have a successful acting career that supports me both financially and artistically.
How do you accomplish your objective? Or I also like the word goal because goals can evolve and change.
You need a plan. If you do A, B, and C it will lead you to Z. Plans are good. They keep you on track and help you stay focused on what you truly want to accomplish. However, what happens when something happens that it is not part of your plan? How do you respond? Does it stress you out or do you roll with the punches?
I think when you plan too much it can add so much stress that you analyze too much. It can also create a sense of not being where you want to be. However, the universe sometimes wants you to get to your goal in a different way in order to make you better person and experience something else that you need at that moment in time. I think it is important to remember that the universe does not give you anything you cannot handle. It may not be what you think you want at the moment. But just smile, laugh, and enjoy where you are in your journey and in your pursuit of your objective.
Case in point, I have decided to jump across the country and move to LA. However, I just received a call to do a play in Western NY. This was not part of my plan at all. I did not audition for this company in over six years. But I kept saying for the past five weeks, "I just want to do a good play on stage." After numerous EPA's and appointments in NYC, I got what I wanted in a different way. This opportunity will help fuel me artistically and help me be a better actor. I will be traveling back and forth for a little bit. I will still move to LA and I may have more plane rides across the country, but I will settle into LA when the time is right.
Sometimes, I fear if I do not stick to my plan, I am somehow a failure. It sometimes is really hard to not feel this way. However, this week I am reminded that these moment are not failures, but moments of self discovery that need to happen.
I leave with this quote from Winston Churchhill
"Success is not final..failure is not fatal; it is the courage to continue that counts."
Laugh and smile at the unexpected moments that become a part of your plan.
Cheers,
McGee
A plan is typically any diagram or list of steps with timing and resources, used to achieve an objective.
What's your objective at the moment?
You don't have one you say...well let's start somewhere. Life is about wants and needs. We all have actions and interactions with one another and in a sense you have an objective. For example, I want to be loved, I want to lose five pounds, I want to be a happier person, I want to travel more. As an actor, you always want to examine the text of a script and figure out what the character wants. Now that's your objective.
Think about the one thing that that you are striving for the most at the moment.
For myself, it's that I want to have a successful acting career that supports me both financially and artistically.
How do you accomplish your objective? Or I also like the word goal because goals can evolve and change.
You need a plan. If you do A, B, and C it will lead you to Z. Plans are good. They keep you on track and help you stay focused on what you truly want to accomplish. However, what happens when something happens that it is not part of your plan? How do you respond? Does it stress you out or do you roll with the punches?
I think when you plan too much it can add so much stress that you analyze too much. It can also create a sense of not being where you want to be. However, the universe sometimes wants you to get to your goal in a different way in order to make you better person and experience something else that you need at that moment in time. I think it is important to remember that the universe does not give you anything you cannot handle. It may not be what you think you want at the moment. But just smile, laugh, and enjoy where you are in your journey and in your pursuit of your objective.
Case in point, I have decided to jump across the country and move to LA. However, I just received a call to do a play in Western NY. This was not part of my plan at all. I did not audition for this company in over six years. But I kept saying for the past five weeks, "I just want to do a good play on stage." After numerous EPA's and appointments in NYC, I got what I wanted in a different way. This opportunity will help fuel me artistically and help me be a better actor. I will be traveling back and forth for a little bit. I will still move to LA and I may have more plane rides across the country, but I will settle into LA when the time is right.
Sometimes, I fear if I do not stick to my plan, I am somehow a failure. It sometimes is really hard to not feel this way. However, this week I am reminded that these moment are not failures, but moments of self discovery that need to happen.
I leave with this quote from Winston Churchhill
"Success is not final..failure is not fatal; it is the courage to continue that counts."
Laugh and smile at the unexpected moments that become a part of your plan.
Cheers,
McGee
Thursday, March 14, 2013
Comm-UNITY
Community:
So, I ran into an old friend who said she read my blog and enjoyed it! Who knew people read this thing?! So many thanks for all those people that actually read along. It also sparked my interest to write a little bit more on this cold March day in New York City. As I ran into someone I know, it struck me that I am part of a community. I am part of community in Astoria, Queens at the moment, but as I continued to talk, I realized I was starting to have a real conversation about art, inspiration, and passion. Like a lightning bolt, it struck me that I am part of a community of artists and that was a pretty cool and rad feeling.
What types of communities do you belong to?
As humans, we constantly interact with one another and form communities in different ways. It may be defined by our jobs, our spiritual beliefs, our hobbies. However, the strongest sense of being a part of a community is in the last part of the word. UNITY...I think by surrounding yourself with common people, you gain a sense of belonging and contributing to a greater good in the world. As an artist, I strive not only to support myself through my acting career but also inspire the world through my craft. By having this sense of unity, you have a better chance to setting attainable goals, and a support system to accomplish those goals.
Goals are good right? And yes we sometimes do not accomplish all of our goals. I am guilty of setting a goal and then not attacking it with the vigor and energy to attain said goal. However, if you have the support system of a commUNITY then your attitude energy and plan of attack are full of life and your able to accomplish your dreams and goals.
Who is apart of your community right now?
Think of 5 people who are a part of your support system. Now think of 3 ways you can reach out to your community in order to make your dreams more of a reality.
It may be having coffee to talk about a new book or new resume. It may be having a movie night and then talking about the movie and intricacies of a certain actor's performance. It may be playing a sport together. All these help you feel like you belong. Because you do belong.
Finally, I met with a casting director one time that told me the most important thing an actor can do is really feel like you are part of a community. At the time, it meant really nothing to me. I kind of shook my head like I understood and agreed. I heard what she said but was not completely listening. I was young, wanted to make money and just act. Now, that idea totally resonates with me.
Reaching out is taking a risk that is quite frightening. But don't we all need a little bit of an adrenaline rush every once in a while. If you have a good community around you, they will scream with you while you take a new plunge toward your goals.
Reach out for something new. Unite with those you trust. Hold onto your dreams.
-Cheers
Patrick G .McGee
Noun
|
So, I ran into an old friend who said she read my blog and enjoyed it! Who knew people read this thing?! So many thanks for all those people that actually read along. It also sparked my interest to write a little bit more on this cold March day in New York City. As I ran into someone I know, it struck me that I am part of a community. I am part of community in Astoria, Queens at the moment, but as I continued to talk, I realized I was starting to have a real conversation about art, inspiration, and passion. Like a lightning bolt, it struck me that I am part of a community of artists and that was a pretty cool and rad feeling.
What types of communities do you belong to?
As humans, we constantly interact with one another and form communities in different ways. It may be defined by our jobs, our spiritual beliefs, our hobbies. However, the strongest sense of being a part of a community is in the last part of the word. UNITY...I think by surrounding yourself with common people, you gain a sense of belonging and contributing to a greater good in the world. As an artist, I strive not only to support myself through my acting career but also inspire the world through my craft. By having this sense of unity, you have a better chance to setting attainable goals, and a support system to accomplish those goals.
Goals are good right? And yes we sometimes do not accomplish all of our goals. I am guilty of setting a goal and then not attacking it with the vigor and energy to attain said goal. However, if you have the support system of a commUNITY then your attitude energy and plan of attack are full of life and your able to accomplish your dreams and goals.
Who is apart of your community right now?
Think of 5 people who are a part of your support system. Now think of 3 ways you can reach out to your community in order to make your dreams more of a reality.
It may be having coffee to talk about a new book or new resume. It may be having a movie night and then talking about the movie and intricacies of a certain actor's performance. It may be playing a sport together. All these help you feel like you belong. Because you do belong.
Finally, I met with a casting director one time that told me the most important thing an actor can do is really feel like you are part of a community. At the time, it meant really nothing to me. I kind of shook my head like I understood and agreed. I heard what she said but was not completely listening. I was young, wanted to make money and just act. Now, that idea totally resonates with me.
Reaching out is taking a risk that is quite frightening. But don't we all need a little bit of an adrenaline rush every once in a while. If you have a good community around you, they will scream with you while you take a new plunge toward your goals.
Reach out for something new. Unite with those you trust. Hold onto your dreams.
-Cheers
Patrick G .McGee
Saturday, February 23, 2013
Love Me, Love Me Not
Love.....Amour..... liefde......dragoste
I am currently on set in Florida and
I am struck by this concept of love, since at this moment in time, I am doing
what I love.
I
am also struck by what this concept means to our society and us as human
beings. From my observations, it is such a huge word in our social
vocabulary. To so many people, love is something that holds so much
weight especially around Valentine's Day.
How
does this word, LOVE, make you feel at this moment in your life?
For
myself, the road to love has been at times a disappointment. However, it
has also been a rewarding, and fulfilling thing that reminds me that I am human
and that as humans we connect with one another. Love comes in many shapes
and sizes. I have experienced "true" love from my parents,
friends, and past relationships. Many times people crave "love"
from that one significant other, and it scares them if they don't have that
feeling in their life. Myself included at times. For so many people, love sometimes is the hardest thing to
grasp, and it begins within yourself. I know this idea is
very much on the verge of self help/self improvement
and dealing with feelings and it turns many people off, but
as actors we all are a little crazy and need a little help/counseling/self
examination.
We
all indeed also get by with a little help from our friends, and that right
there is love.
Do you truly love yourself?
For myself, it is an ongoing process
and time for exploration and examination. Many days I feel on top of my
game embracing all aspects of who I am and who I have become as a human being.
But there are days that I doubt myself and feel "ugly"
What are the things in life that
take you away from loving yourself?
I feel like in order to love someone
else truly and love what you do, you must examine yourself from within.
All too many times, I see people that are unsure of who they are and what
they want to become. Searching and grasping for ones true self. My
self included. However, I started to embrace the motto love what you do
and do what you love in order to find happiness and love within my own life
journey. Along with that self love and acceptance there have been many
bumps along the road and there will continue to be. However, last night,
I was reminded that those bumps are part of my journey and show me that I am
exactly where I need to be as a human being in all aspects of my life,
mentally, emotionally, physically, spiritually. It is about
examining all those parts of oneself that leads to love. Those bumps are
there to force you to examine a certain part of yourself that you may be
neglecting and that may be becoming "ugly." But through all the
painful bumps, there is true beauty in the ugliness, because it leads
to the path of loving yourself.
As an actor, I am very
self conscious. I think it comes with the territory. Earlier
in my career, I hated so many things about myself and wanted to be someone that
everyone else wanted me to be. It has not been until these past few years
where I have truly accepted me for me and discovered that this is what I truly
needed to do as an actor. This self acceptance and love has made me more
aware of my whole being inside and out and has shaped my work in ways I never
thought possible. Of course, there are many days of still doubting but
through that doubt, has come many successes. The outcome is the fact that
I am in the right place at the right time at this moment in my life.
I do not deny at times, it is hard
to love, especially yourself. But find the love in your life with friends,
family, coworkers, and maybe that significant other, embrace it, because it
will lead you to exactly where you need to be. And it all begins with
you!!!
Shoot for the stars and maybe
cupid's arrow will fall from the sky!
As always,
Love what you do and do what you
love!
Cheers
McGee
Saturday, February 2, 2013
Who are you?
You are you. You are not someone else. Someone else is someone else. You are you.
But why do we so often wish we had the attributes that other people possess. Do you wish you could change something about yourself? Why?
It is now time to start to accept and love those parts that make you.....you.
What sets you apart from everyone else in this world?
What do you love about yourself?
What do you dislike?
I am trying to refrain from the word hate because there is so much hatred in this world that you should not hate yourself.
List five attributes that you love that set you apart from everyone! Go now...do it! I mean right now...
1
2
3
4
5
Now that we got that out of the way. It is good to look at yourself. One of these days take the time to look in the mirror for 2 minutes. Look at the way you smile, the way you frown, the way you laugh... So often we judge ourselves on the way we look. Many times I wish I was taller or was not as blind and did not have to wear my glasses. But it is time to love those things about myself that make me, Patrick G. McGee and not someone else.
In this crazy business known as show, so much depends on appearance. Sometimes we wait in line with 100 people that look so similar to the way we look, it freaks us out. But it is time to stop, breathe, and remember that there is only one of you, and you bring something new and great to this role that no other person can bring to the role. So just be yourself....and be true to what you want to offer this world and everything will work out in the end. At the end of the day, you are have to look at yourself in the mirror.
Laugh at yourself, love yourself, and if you are of age treat yourself to a beer because you deserve it.
After all there is only one you.
(As I write this I am treating myself to a Sam Adams Cherry Wheat, because there is only one Patty G. McGee and that is reason enjoy to celebrate)
But why do we so often wish we had the attributes that other people possess. Do you wish you could change something about yourself? Why?
It is now time to start to accept and love those parts that make you.....you.
What sets you apart from everyone else in this world?
What do you love about yourself?
What do you dislike?
I am trying to refrain from the word hate because there is so much hatred in this world that you should not hate yourself.
List five attributes that you love that set you apart from everyone! Go now...do it! I mean right now...
1
2
3
4
5
Now that we got that out of the way. It is good to look at yourself. One of these days take the time to look in the mirror for 2 minutes. Look at the way you smile, the way you frown, the way you laugh... So often we judge ourselves on the way we look. Many times I wish I was taller or was not as blind and did not have to wear my glasses. But it is time to love those things about myself that make me, Patrick G. McGee and not someone else.
In this crazy business known as show, so much depends on appearance. Sometimes we wait in line with 100 people that look so similar to the way we look, it freaks us out. But it is time to stop, breathe, and remember that there is only one of you, and you bring something new and great to this role that no other person can bring to the role. So just be yourself....and be true to what you want to offer this world and everything will work out in the end. At the end of the day, you are have to look at yourself in the mirror.
Laugh at yourself, love yourself, and if you are of age treat yourself to a beer because you deserve it.
After all there is only one you.
(As I write this I am treating myself to a Sam Adams Cherry Wheat, because there is only one Patty G. McGee and that is reason enjoy to celebrate)
Wednesday, January 2, 2013
Goal!!!!!
Goals 1: Set up some new goals
Goal 2: Attempt to accomplish these goals in the next 365 days
It is a new year, a new start, time to re-organize, re-evaluate, and find that rejuvenation
Have you set new goals for this upcoming year? If so, what goals have you set and why?
I think it is important to look back and see you what you have accomplished for the year. As an actor, it is hard to constantly see what you have not gotten rather than what you have gained in your career. So many times, I find myself saying, "Why can't that be me?" Sound familiar? Well, this year I have challenged myself to celebrate all successes in the industry and state, "Me too!" and not "Why not me?!" There is a piece of the success pie for me in this industry, and I am going to enjoy that slice!
Goals can sometimes be a lofty idea, but I think they are important to give you momentum. As human beings, energy is a driving force every day. Energy affects us until the moment we die, and so I feel goals can help boost our energy to accomplish the things we so desperately want. This year, I will set my goals, and I may not accomplish all of them. However, if I do not dream big, and set big goals, I may never know what I can accomplish as a person and an actor.
My challenge to you: Set three goals for yourself to accomplish throughout 2013. Then re-read these goals and set one more goal that you think is just out of reach.
For myself:
1.Book one commercial as a principle role
2. Book a role in an indie film or upcoming pilot
3. Get into all 3 grad school Acting Programs
****Get back into running shape and by August 2013 be able to run a half marathon.
Reach for the stars and keep on rocking it like the Rock Star you are are.
13 is a my lucky number so here is to a very successful and lucky 2013 for everyone!
Live, Laugh, Love and Enjoy the moment in front our your face!
McGee
Goal 2: Attempt to accomplish these goals in the next 365 days
It is a new year, a new start, time to re-organize, re-evaluate, and find that rejuvenation
Have you set new goals for this upcoming year? If so, what goals have you set and why?
I think it is important to look back and see you what you have accomplished for the year. As an actor, it is hard to constantly see what you have not gotten rather than what you have gained in your career. So many times, I find myself saying, "Why can't that be me?" Sound familiar? Well, this year I have challenged myself to celebrate all successes in the industry and state, "Me too!" and not "Why not me?!" There is a piece of the success pie for me in this industry, and I am going to enjoy that slice!
Goals can sometimes be a lofty idea, but I think they are important to give you momentum. As human beings, energy is a driving force every day. Energy affects us until the moment we die, and so I feel goals can help boost our energy to accomplish the things we so desperately want. This year, I will set my goals, and I may not accomplish all of them. However, if I do not dream big, and set big goals, I may never know what I can accomplish as a person and an actor.
My challenge to you: Set three goals for yourself to accomplish throughout 2013. Then re-read these goals and set one more goal that you think is just out of reach.
For myself:
1.Book one commercial as a principle role
2. Book a role in an indie film or upcoming pilot
3. Get into all 3 grad school Acting Programs
****Get back into running shape and by August 2013 be able to run a half marathon.
Reach for the stars and keep on rocking it like the Rock Star you are are.
13 is a my lucky number so here is to a very successful and lucky 2013 for everyone!
Live, Laugh, Love and Enjoy the moment in front our your face!
McGee
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