If You Knew What Giving Up May Actually Cost You, You'd Think Twice
It's been a couple of days since the Emmys, but seeing how this is Feature Wednesday, it seemed appropriate to bring up again, specially to let you that Uzo Aduba's nomination and subsequent win almost didn't happen.
I know, you're probably thinking "huh??" So did you know that the two-time Emmy winner actually gave up acting the same day that she was offered the role of Suzanne "Crazy Eyes" Warren in Orange Is The New Black? That's right. Uzo had taken enough rejection, and she said, this is enough. She'd even received a no from the show she's on in regards to another role that she originally auditioned for. She was instead offered the role that has now put her on the map, and in the history books for winning two Emmys for the same role, however in different categories (Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Drama Series- 2015 & Outstanding Guest Actress in a Comedy Series - 2014).
This brings us to todays message, NEVER GIVE UP. There's a quote that says one of the hardest things in life is knowing whether to give up or try harder. And my take on this, which I mentioned yesterday, is that if it concerns your passion, never give up. Patience and persistence which I spoke of here are the 2 things that will propel you and your career.
“A river cuts through a rock, not because of its power, but because of its persistence.”
Being a black female aspiring actress will undoubtedly have its challenges, however roles are being written for particularly black females, and it's up to you to find those roles. I know that the stats may be against you, however if you focus on the negative and the obstacles, then that is what you manifest more of in your life.
Instead choose to focus on the many role models that are out there for you to be inspired by, some of them featured here on the blog. Just look at the 3 beautiful women who toke home an Emmy last Sunday.
Giving up is not an option my friend. So keep strategizing, keep planning, and of course, keep auditioning.
Be blessed!