Ira Glass on persistence

Allen Brown · Posted: Wed Jul 09, 2008, 13:46 (GMT) Post subject: Ira Glass on persistence

Stumbled across this today and thought I'd share. So many beginners wonder what it takes to make it in a creative field. This is one important element.

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Diane Havens · **Voice Talent** Joined: 09 Jun 2006 Posts: 1281

Thanks for posting this, Allen. It's so true -- those who do have "good taste" are not satisfied with their work for a very long time. Work I was proud of last year, I find fault with this year. And that's as it should be -- as you study, evolve and discover in your field -- there will be many epiphanies.

Following the meandering paths is half the fun, now, isn't it?

Allen Brown · Posted: Wed Jul 09, 2008, 14:06 (GMT) Post subject:

Indeed, Diane. The journey is the experience - there is no final destination.

This piece reinforced my belief in advice I was given years ago. If you want to write - start writing. If you want to paint - start painting. Do it everyday. You'll be a beginner, and it will show. But, it's the only way you'll improve.

Deby Cedars · **Voice Talent** Joined: 23 Jan 2006 Posts: 1482

This is really great stuff. Is it just me or does that guy talk like Woody Allen?

Diane Havens · **Voice Talent** Joined: 09 Jun 2006 Posts: 1281

Absolutely, Allen.

I think it's sad that so many kids expect instant success, instant gratification, in what they do. Part of it is that society has put such pressure on us all to be perfect from the get-go. I know I talk about my years teaching a lot, but I think people underestimate the value of a good teacher -- a good teacher will not penalize true effort, but will reward, guide and encourage self-discovery, and self-evaluation.

I try never to let a day go by without learning something new -- by reading, traveling, watching a film, just observing -- whatever. The more educated you are as an actor, the more you have to bring to the roles you play.

Lori Furth · **Voice Talent** Joined: 05 May 2004 Posts: 226

Allen

THANK YOU! Absolutely right on. I am a big Ira Glass and "This American Life" fan.

Funny how stuff like this comes when you need it the most. I was just lamenting how there's a big difference between what I think I am putting into an audition, and how it sounds later. After years of experience in IVR, I'm relatively new to commercial VO endeavours.

And great advice to make a deadline for yourself to create projects on a regular basis. I'll persist through this growing-pains phase and gain more experience, knowledge and comfort with my professional choice.

Keep on keepin' on!