Casting Director Renee Godbout encourages you to find a way to fit acting into the life you're already living

It’s a sad fact, but the majority of actors don’t become the next Robert DeNiro or Meryl Streep. Most actors barely get by financially and often have other jobs as well to pay the bills. It’s a hard business to get into, and only those who truly love it will find the experience worth the sacrifices.

But remember that it is your choice to make these sacrifices, and no one owes you your big break because of what you have been through. Some actors will find employment that is flexible enough to continue to pursue acting, and others maybe have savings or supportive spouses that might also help to keep you afloat.

Always remain realistic with your goals and realize that only you are in charge of your acting destiny. Here are a couple of suggestions on how to do that:

1. Give yourself a timeframe. I know a lot of actors who arrived in Los Angeles with a 3-5 year timeframe to somehow make it in the industry. They might have gotten degrees in other mediums or are considering graduate school, but want that one chance to see if they can make it as an actor first. It gives people the opportunity to possibly pursue both of their dream careers. They’ll never have regrets of “what if.”

2. Talk it over with your family. You are going to need their support both financially and emotionally. If you’re married, then the decision to become a fulltime actor is a joint decision that affects everyone in your family, especially if you have children.

3. You can be an actor without making it your fulltime career. If you love to act then take part in community theater or take classes in your spare time. There are ways to enjoy acting as a hobby without the pressure of making it your career.

4. Put your family first. I’ve had actors call me complaining that they’re not working enough and can’t afford to take care of their kids. That’s when you know that maybe your fulltime acting dream should be put on hold. Production and casting directors are only responsible for finding the best actor for each part and not for making sure your family is taken care of.

There are many ways to start your career as an actor, and InstantCast is one of the best. But remember, it’s still up to you to make it happen. Get the best headshots, find a way to get an agent, read about any open auditions you can attend, and be at the right place at the right time. There is no handbook on how to become an actor and it’s up to you to take all the right steps.

Renee Godbout - Freelance Casting Director. Renee Godbout recently worked on the first season of The CW's popular teen show Gossip Girl at Grant Wilfey Casting. Some past projects include 2 seasons of Law & Order: Criminal Intent, the pilot for Dirty Sexy Money, and the Jonathan Demme-directed Rachel Getting Married.

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