Make your first 5000 mistakes as quickly as possible.
Most of the wisdom we gain is a result of what we learn from the mistakes we make. In scene study, it’s just as important to find out what a scene is as it is to find out what it isn’t. In rehearsal we learn just as much about our show in the things that don’t work as in the things that do. What’s important is that we try. Don’t preoccupy yourself with the outcome. If you try something that doesn’t work, or if you goof, what difference will it make? Who cares?
Sometimes actors don’t try things because they’re afraid of looking foolish. You’re going to look more foolish trying not to look foolish than if you tried to look foolish. The reason is this: the first way is based on fear, the second on courage. You’re going to make mistakes. It’s the quickest way to learn.
Don’t be the actor who is afraid to look bad. Be bold. Get those first 5000 mistakes out of the way as quickly as possible.
Just try not to make the same mistake 5000 times.












