Recently I had forced downtime. Medical issues caused me to be less of an active participant in my career, which is not a usual thing for me. We all have to deal with down time. Whether things are slow, we can’t physically do as much, or we are just on some down swing mood. In this business it’s easy to get downtrodden especially when things are slow. But just like our bodies and souls our careers sometimes need a recharge and detox. Here’s some tips about what you could be doing instead of moping.
1. Applying
There are many programs out there that on a daily basis you may think I don’t have time to apply for this. Or this is a long shot. Diversity programs abound, especially for women. And when you have down time it’s the perfect time to explore these options. Some great examples are the NBC diversity workshops. Be sure to check out your favorite network’s diversity programs, and apply. Some may be in your comfort zone. Some may be out. But the important thing is to take the leap. You never know where these programs and connections may lead.
- Learning
When things are slow this is a great opportunity to check out things that perhaps you haven’t done. The commercial class you’ve been toying around with, take it. Not sure what to take? Enroll in things like infolist.com and everyday you’ll get opportunities to try some great workshops for free. For the Union gals, this is the perfect time to pay attention to the CAP workshops and conservatory opportunities provided from your union.
- Get dressed
Its very very easy to fall into the netflix pit of your couch. But just the simple act of getting dressed. Going for a walk. Holding yourself to office hours where you have to focus on work related to dos will give you a little purpose.
- Brain storm
Now’s the time to make that list and check it twice. What do you want to accomplish that you haven’t? Why not start a strategy meeting with yourself?
- Read Great things
Yes pick up that biography of your girl crush and let them motivate you. Also great to pick up in a rut: The Artist’s Way, 7 Habits of Highly Effective People, The War of Art. All of these are detox for the soul books.
- Reach Out
Facebook, twitter and your friends may seem like a distraction but in fact these are great tools to keep you working. Search for opportunities. Say yes to helping, even if that position isn’t your strength, at least you are flexing a muscle. At least you are getting out there.
The truth of the matter is, we all have those days where we feel we can’t move. We are restricted, or have had bad breaks. But the most important thing to remember is that no one can stop you but you. And it’s easy to trap yourself. So you can’t do this?…do that. Acting isn’t happening?… write. Car broke down or is immovable because of something?…find ways to move your brain.
Remember, everyone has those times. The successful people make a move.