The basics of voice acting stay the same. While styles, popular age, and other nuances may be ever-changing, the basics of voice acting are what they are. As voice actors and business owners, we must know our strengths and weaknesses. But we also need to understand what supports us and helps us move toward continued success. What keeps me going is not one stagnant thing. On the contrary, applying various methods keep me grounded to move toward voice-over and personal success.
Too Much Too Fast
We’re bombarded with news reports, advertisements, and unsolicited help every week. Humans are not equipped to keep up with floods of communication at the speed of light. The constant change and distractions we experience give most of us the attention span of a fly.
Healthcare industry influencer Steven Zauderer writes in a July 24th, 2023, article, Average Human Attention Span By Age: 47 Statistics, says “The average human has an attention span of just 8.25 seconds according to recent studies – 4.25 seconds less than in 2000.” Zauderer further writes, “The average human attention span decreased by nearly 25% between 2000 and 2015.” So, you might say, it’s hard to know what is means to be or how to stay grounded at least for very long.
Getting Grounded
It’s pretty standard nowadays to walk through an airport or busy metropolitan city and notice almost everyone on a smart device. When I see people staring glazed-eyed into smartphones, I wonder if they really know where they are or are aware of their surroundings. While it’s nice to be connected, the constant stream of information will hamper our ability to absorb all the information we need on any given topic.
In voiceovers, it’s essential to continue grounding ourselves through education, practice, and connections. Adding to our abilities and improving our skills may not be sexy and exciting, but it builds the foundation for a successful business.
“Grounding is most effective when you have some place to go. When you know where you are going, grounding brings strength and confidence, when you’re stagnant you get caught in the past.”
Tony Curl (Seriously Simple Stuff to Get You Unstuck)
Patience is still A Virtue
Patience in voice acting seems like an oxymoron, but it is not. We stay grounded as we apply what has been learned. If one has learned the appropriate skills for a successful voiceover career, some success will eventually come. There is no shortcut for hard work and continued development. Patience in the voice-over business may be the best way to secure your success for the long haul.
Make It A Family Thing
We voice actors are people; therefore, we need people. We need interaction with those in the business, those who can help us, and those who are NOT in the industry. The care coming from the right supporters can make us successful, console us in our times of failure, and replenish our souls.
Make sure you have associations with those who can keep you in the loop regarding trends in the voiceover industry. Moreover, make sure you know those who are experts in marketing or at least refresh your marketing techniques through education. It’s always smart to attend at least one in-person voiceover event every year to be around like-minded people.
Always make time for family and friends. Whether you’re married or single, you need time with people you like and love and those who like and love you. Time with close friends and family supports your mental health. We’ve had too much time alone thanks to the COVID-19 lockdowns.
Happiness [is] only real when shared.” Jon Krakauer
It’s time to continue restoring our personal and professional support groups. These associations and practices can keep us sane and creative voice talents. You may find that applying the above concepts will help you be more grounded leading you into being the best you can be as an excellent, long-term voice actor. #breakthatlip, #breakalip
