Ep. 35: Should You Focus on Acting or Finances First?

In this episode of The Actor's Career Compass, host Martin Bentsen delves into a listener's pressing question: "How do I make acting a priority while working a 9 to 5 job to make ends meet?" Martin empathizes with the struggle of balancing a passion for acting with the necessity of financial stability. He advises listeners to secure their financial footing first, as desperation can negatively impact performance and perception in the acting world. Martin suggests seeking a higher-paying, flexible job to alleviate financial stress, recommending the use of budgeting tools like "You Need a Budget" to gain financial control. This foundational stability, he argues, will enable aspiring actors to invest in their craft more effectively, from coaching to headshots, without the burden of financial desperation. Martin's practical advice offers a roadmap to financial stability as a stepping stone to pursuing acting with confidence and focus.