As performers, it’s all too easy to feel overwhelmed by the things outside our control. The industry can be unpredictable, with challenges like cancelled gigs, casting choices, and shifting trends constantly vying for our attention. But here’s the secret to kicking off a productive, proactive week: focus on what you can control and let go of the rest. This concept, often referred to as the “Circle of Control,” can empower you to channel your energy effectively, reduce stress, and truly thrive in your career.

Step 1: Identify Your Circle of Control vs. Circle of Influence

To help you stay focused, let’s break it down into two circles:

1. The Circle of Control includes everything that you have direct power over, like your actions, habits, mindset, preparation, and how you choose to respond to situations.
2. The Circle of Influence represents factors that you might not directly control but can impact through your actions. For example, you can influence how a casting director perceives you by arriving on time, being prepared, and presenting a positive attitude. But their final decision? That’s out of your hands.

Actionable Tips for Performers: How to Focus on What You Can Control

1. Master Your Craft
   Invest time in honing your skills. You control how often you practice, the quality of your preparation, and your commitment to improvement. Enrol in that workshop, practice those monologues, or spend an hour refining your dance routine. When you focus on getting better each day, you’re stacking the odds in your favour for future opportunities.

CTA: Pick one area of your craft to focus on this week and dedicate time each day to improve.

2. Mindset is Everything
   Your mindset is entirely within your control. How you talk to yourself, how you handle rejection, and how you manage performance anxiety are all areas you can influence with positive self-talk and mindfulness practices. When you nurture a resilient, optimistic mindset, you’ll find it easier to bounce back from setbacks and stay motivated.

CTA: Start each day this week with a positive affirmation. Try “I am prepared and capable of delivering my best performance today.”

3. Your Preparation and Professionalism
   Showing up prepared is one of the most impactful ways to control your success. Have your materials ready (CV, headshots, rehearsal notes), show up on time, and respect everyone’s time in the room. By taking control of your professionalism, you influence how others perceive you and set yourself up for success.

CTA: For each audition or rehearsal this week, arrive 10 minutes early and ensure all materials are organised and ready to go.

4. Set Goals, Not Expectations
   Goals are within your control; expectations often depend on external validation. Set personal goals like mastering a new skill, networking with one new industry professional, or creating your own content. Each of these is something you can actively work towards, regardless of the industry’s response.

CTA: Set a small, attainable goal this week and focus on what you need to do to accomplish it.

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Embrace the Power of Letting Go

Letting go doesn’t mean you don’t care; it means you’re freeing yourself from unnecessary stress. When you release control over casting decisions, competition outcomes, or other people’s opinions, you’re making space for growth and reducing anxiety. Acknowledge these things, then place them outside your Circle of Control. They’re simply not worth your mental energy.

CTA: Take five minutes tonight to write down what’s within your control and what isn’t. Practice releasing what you can’t control and place your focus squarely on what you can.

Find Freedom in Your Focus

By focusing on what you can control, you’ll feel more empowered, less stressed, and ready to tackle whatever the week throws your way. So, performers, start this #MakeItHappenMonday by choosing where you direct your energy—toward growth, preparation, and a mindset that sets you up for success. You’ve got this!

Here’s to a productive, proactive week where you own your Circle of Control!