Every morning before my first audition, or before a booking, I silently say to the client or producer: “I don’t need this job”. Let me explain a little; I’m really telling this to my ego. That voice of fear that is always ringing around my head. It’s the one that says “you’re a bad voice actor, and you won’t get this job.” That voice is very strong because it gets a lot of practice.
Voices in your head
There are actually two voices in your head. You probably already know the negative fear-based ego voice. It’s the one that says “You NEED this job. Don’t screw it up!” Now try listening for that other voice; the joyful one that says “oh boy! A script. Let’s play pretend, create a character and have FUN!” That is your inner child voice. Chances are this child voice is weak while the negative ego voice is loud and clear. here’s how to give that child voice some exercise, so it can become stronger than the ego. Start by telling your ego “I don’t need this job.”
Needing or wanting
It all comes down to a choice of needing or wanting. Needs are based in fear, which will never benefit a creative endeavor. Voice over is play. It’s our chance to let the inner child out to be creative and have some fun. You’ll never hear a child say “I need to play”. You certainly will hear one say “I want to play”. So next time you audition for a job say “I don’t need this job, but I want this job.” When you want something you approach it with curiosity and energy. When you need something you approach it with fear and anxiety. Trust me. The casting director will smell your desperation a mile away.
Give it a name
Through therapy, I’ve found a great way to weaken the negative voice inside me is to give it a name. When you give a negative emotion or thought pattern a name it makes it manageable and easily identifiable. When I find myself thinking “I bet this is what the client wants” I stop and say “Not now Mr. Pleaser, Carl is playing”. Try it for yourself. Give it a name. You might loosen up a little and have some fun. Isn’t that why you got into voice over? To play and explore and have fun? Gosh I hope so.
Some recommended reading on this topic is the free online acting book by Actor, Writer and Director, Jack Plotnick. His story and his work are bound to inspire you.