The holiday season can often be a double-edged sword for performers. While it brings joy and celebration, it can also be a time of reduced work, auditions, and gigs, leading to feelings of uncertainty or isolation. This #WellnessWednesday, let’s dive into how you can stay mentally strong, centred, and ready to thrive – not just survive – this festive season.
1. Stay Connected
Performers thrive on community. Whether it’s your fellow cast members, classmates, or industry friends, make an effort to stay connected.
- Join or Create Meetups: Organise a casual gathering to share stories, rehearse, or just catch up over coffee.
- Virtual Creative Jams: Can’t meet in person? Host an online get-together where you can read scenes, share song ideas, or support one another.
- Lean on Your Circle: Sometimes, simply reaching out for a chat can make all the difference. Vulnerability is strength, and you’re not alone.
2. Set Small, Achievable Goals
With a quieter season, this is the perfect time to focus on growth. Small goals can have a big impact.
- Challenge Yourself: Master a new accent, explore a fresh dance style, or strengthen your belt range.
- Consistency is Key: Dedicate even 15 minutes a day to your craft—it’s better than a large, overwhelming commitment.
- Celebrate Progress: Remember, every improvement counts. Keep a journal to track your wins, however small.
3. Prioritise Self-Care
It’s tempting to use downtime to push harder, but rest and rejuvenation are vital for long-term success.
- Recharge Mindfully: Take up mindfulness practices such as meditation, deep breathing, or journaling.
- Gentle Movement: Yoga, Pilates, or even a brisk walk can relieve stress and keep you physically ready for the demands of performing.
- Nourish Yourself: Enjoy festive treats in moderation while keeping balanced meals a priority. Good nutrition fuels both body and mind.
4. Celebrate Your Journey
The year may not have gone exactly as planned, but every step on your journey is worth celebrating.
- Reflect Positively: Create a gratitude list of the roles, auditions, or experiences you’ve had this year.
- Document Wins: Write down your favourite moments from 2024. They’re reminders of how far you’ve come.
- Acknowledge Growth: Growth isn’t always linear, but it’s there. You’ve gained resilience, skills, and experiences—each bringing you closer to your goals.
5. Plan Ahead
A little planning now can make the start of 2025 feel less daunting and more exciting.
- Vision Boards: Create a visual reminder of where you want to go. Include dream roles, skills to master, or projects to develop.
- Set SMART Goals: Be specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound as you outline your ambitions.
- Tackle Administrative Tasks: Refresh your CV, update your showreel, or research upcoming opportunities so you’re ready to hit the ground running.
6. Spread Joy and Give Back
Sometimes, the best way to lift your own spirits is by bringing joy to others.
- Volunteer: Share your talents by performing at community events, hospitals, or shelters.
- Collaborate Creatively: Work with fellow artists to create festive content for social media or small local events.
- Random Acts of Kindness: A simple gesture, like buying a coffee for a friend or supporting another artist’s project, can spread warmth and positivity.
7. Embrace the Festive Spirit—Your Way
Your holidays don’t have to look like anyone else’s.
- Create New Traditions: Whether it’s a solo holiday movie marathon, a creative baking session, or a self-care spa day, find joy in your own unique way.
- Set Boundaries: If certain gatherings or traditions drain you, it’s okay to say no. Honour what feels right for you.
The festive season is a great opportunity for reflection, restoration, and recalibration. By focusing on connection, growth, and self-care, you’ll emerge stronger, ready to tackle the opportunities 2025 has to offer.
You’ve got this! Wishing you a peaceful, joyful, and creatively fulfilling holiday season.
