5 Simple Self-Care Hacks for Actors That Are Easy AF
Self-care is a buzzword you’ve probably heard a million times, but when you’re an actor, it’s not just a trend—it’s a necessity.
Unlike the 9-to-5 crowd, actors face unique challenges. Irregular work, last-minute self-tape requests, and the ever-present uncertainty of when the next gig will come through can make work-life balance incredibly challenging.
To help you stay sane, focused, and ready to seize opportunities when they arise, here are five super easy self-care hacks that will keep you on top of your game.
1. Ditch the Screens (Yes, That Means Your Phone)
Let’s be real—social media can be a minefield. One minute you’re just scrolling, and the next, you’re spiralling because someone you went to drama school with just landed a role in the latest Netflix hit. The best way to keep your head in the game? Limit your screen time. Instead of letting your phone or TV hijack your day, take a break. Go for a walk, pick up a book, or do something creative. Bonus: cutting back on screen time helps you sleep better, so you’ll wake up feeling refreshed and ready to take on the world.
2. Get Your Life Together (The Old-School Way)
Feeling scattered? Try this hack: create a daily schedule like you did back in school. It sounds basic, but mapping out your day with designated time blocks for things like self-taping, admin, checking Spotlight, creative stuff like reading plays or books, muggle work and self-care can do wonders for your productivity. Use a tool like Canva to design a timetable that looks good enough to actually use. Stick it on your wall, and suddenly, you’ve got structure, baby!
3. Wake Up a Little Earlier (Don’t Hate Me)
I know, I know—mornings are rough. But hear me out. Waking up just 15 minutes earlier than usual can give you a head start on your day. Use this quiet time to do something that sets a positive tone, like journaling, stretching or writing your morning pages. It doesn’t have to be a drastic change—just set your alarm a little earlier each week until you find a wake-up time that feels right. Before you know it, you’ll be one of those people who actually enjoys mornings. Who knew?
4. Make a Vision Board (Trust Me, It Works)
Vision boards might seem cheesy, but they’re a game-changer for getting clear on what you want in your acting career. Spend some time daydreaming about your ideal roles, the people you’d love to work with, and the projects that excite you. Then, put it all together in a vision board that you can look at whenever you need a dose of inspiration. When you can see your goals in front of you and feel where you’d like to be, it’s a lot easier to stay motivated and keep moving toward them.
5. Write It Down (Seriously, Start Journaling)
Journaling isn’t just for teenagers—it's a powerful tool for anyone, especially actors. Taking just 5 minutes a day to write down your thoughts can help you process emotions, spark creativity, and even generate material for future performances. Whether you jot down ideas in the morning or reflect on your day before bed, this simple practice can make a big difference in your mental well-being and your craft.
These hacks aren’t just easy—they’re essential for keeping your cool in the unpredictable world of acting. By making self-care a priority, you’ll be better prepared to handle whatever the industry throws your way. And if you’re looking for more personalised support to help you navigate the ups and downs of your acting career, I offer coaching specifically tailored to actors—let's work together to make sure you're at your best, both on and off the stage (or screen).
You might also be interested in this retreat which is specifically for professional actors!
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