On Being “Pushy”
This might surprise many people who know me in real life, but I hate having to be pushy.
Sure, I’m driven and motivated and like to get shit done, but when it comes to having to stick up for myself to get things accomplished in my career? I’m often intimidated.
I hate to “bother” people or be irritating or feel like I’m “harassing” someone to get things done. I’m not sure where it comes from, but when I’m dealing with other industry professionals, I definitely tend to err on the side of not following through enough because of this fear of offending someone (I think this is a pretty common fear among actors).
So it was very out of character for me to show up unannounced at the office of an agent whom I’d met with twice and never heard back from with only baked goods and a smile. I thought I might be sick on the sidewalk right before I walked into her building.
Sure enough, two hours later, she was calling me to ask if I was interested in signing with the agency.
So I guess all of this to say: sometimes it really does pay off to be “pushy.” Although we actors live in constant fear of offending people or stepping on someone’s toes, we can’t expect to achieve what we want to without bugging people every now and again — constructively and professionally, of course.
I took a huge leap outside of my comfort zone by doing so, but look what I gained.
What can you achieve if you commit to being a little more pushy?
P.S. Yay! I’m signed with a legit agent! 🙂
The Green Room 
Congratulations!! Great advice. I’m the same way, never wanting to “bother” people, but I guess it’s true what they say about the squeaky wheel.
Thanks so much for clicking over and taking the time to read my post!! Yes, I am always so afraid of being a bother, but I guess those age-old sayings are around for a reason 🙂
Congrats congrats congrats! What agency??
Congratulations! I definitely know what you mean, but I think as long as one approaches it with professionalism and common sense, it doesn’t come across as pushy.
Thanks, Lenka! You’re absolutely right.
Congrats on making that bold move! Its amazing how such a simple action can be so scary. But look what great results you got from it!!
Thanks! Yes, it was terrifying, but absolutely worth it!