Actors and the Holiday Season: Finding Balance Between Work and Rest
By Jen Berry
The holiday season can be a magical time of year—full of family gatherings, cozy nights by the fire, and celebrations that recharge the soul. But for actors, the season also presents a unique challenge: how do you balance taking time off with staying on top of your acting career?
Whether you're between gigs or navigating a demanding schedule, the holidays can feel like a juggling act. Here’s how to manage the demands of your career while also allowing yourself the rest you deserve during the most festive time of year.
1. It’s Okay to Take Time Off
First and foremost, give yourself permission to take a break. The life of an actor is often unpredictable and can involve long hours, intense auditions, and emotional ups and downs. The holidays offer an opportunity to recharge mentally, emotionally, and physically.
Remember, rest is just as important as work. Taking time off to relax and connect with loved ones can give you the energy and perspective you need to return to your craft even stronger in the new year. Enjoy the downtime without guilt—your career will still be there when the holidays are over.
2. Set Boundaries with Work
That said, the entertainment industry doesn’t stop for the holidays. Self-tape auditions, callbacks, or even performances may still be happening. If you're in demand, balancing these work opportunities with holiday plans can be tricky.
The key is to set clear boundaries. If you’ve decided to take time off, communicate your availability to your agents or casting directors in advance. Let them know when you’ll be available again so they can plan accordingly. And if you do have to work during the holidays, try to schedule your work around important family gatherings or personal time. You deserve to enjoy the season, even if you’re juggling work commitments.
3. Use the Downtime to Recharge and Reflect
If your career slows down over the holidays, this is a great time to recharge and reflect on the past year. Did you accomplish the goals you set for yourself? What were your biggest wins and challenges? Use this time to evaluate your progress and set new intentions for the coming year.
Consider incorporating activities that help you stay creatively engaged without the pressure of performing. Take a new acting class, explore a side project, or even volunteer in your community. Engaging in these activities can keep your mind sharp while also providing you with a sense of fulfillment outside of your career.
4. Stay Connected, But Not Overwhelmed
One of the challenges of the holiday season is feeling like you’re missing out on opportunities while others are still grinding. Social media can amplify this, as it seems like everyone else is booking gigs, networking at holiday parties, or prepping for the next big project.
Instead of letting FOMO take over, focus on staying connected in a way that feels manageable. Check in with industry friends and peers, attend a few holiday gatherings or networking events if they fit into your schedule, but don’t feel the need to be constantly “on.” It’s okay to step back and enjoy some downtime, knowing that your career isn’t defined by a few weeks off.
5. Plan for the New Year
While you’re taking time off, it's also an opportunity to prepare for the year ahead. You can use this quieter time to update your resume, refresh your reel, or start planning out your next career moves. Think about the roles or projects you want to pursue in the coming months, and set clear goals for how you’ll get there.
Having a plan in place before the new year starts can give you a head start on achieving your acting goals. That way, when the holiday season winds down, you'll be ready to hit the ground running with a clear vision of where you’re headed.
6. Celebrate Yourself
The holidays are a time for celebration, and that includes celebrating yourself. Acting is a tough industry, and you've made it through another year of auditions, performances, training, and personal growth. Reflect on your accomplishments, no matter how big or small, and give yourself credit for the work you've put in.
Take the time to recharge your creative spirit by indulging in activities that bring you joy. Whether it's watching your favorite holiday movies, spending quality time with loved ones, or simply enjoying a moment of peace, give yourself the gift of self-appreciation.
The holiday season can be a wonderful opportunity for actors to step back, recharge, and reflect on the past year. Whether you’re taking time off completely or balancing work with celebration, the key is to find what works best for you. Embrace the season without guilt, knowing that rest is an essential part of sustaining your creativity and passion. The industry will still be there when the holidays are over, and you’ll return refreshed and ready for whatever comes next.
