Confronting the Inner Monsters

Confronting the Inner Monsters

by Mario A. Campanaro

Each of us has, at one time or another, confronted the myriad of “monsters” (as I like to call them) that creep into our conscious everyday lives. We may also secretly battle those hidden “monsters” that lurk in our subconscious, holding us back from truly being who we are, from owning what we do, and from taking the risk of putting ourselves and our work “out there”—despite the possibility of criticism or even the dreaded result of “failure.” These monsters may seem powerful, strong, permanent, unconquerable, insurmountable, and incredibly real.

But the truth is that there is something within each of us capable of moving mountains. Something so great, so powerful, and so REAL within us that we can face these fictitious shadows, dance with them, and watch them dissolve away. When we connect to that unrelenting ally within, we realize that the light turns on, the shadows fade, and the “monsters” disappear.

As professional actors, we are constantly called upon to be brave in all that we do. However, that doesn’t mean we don’t experience those moments—sometimes they may feel quite big—when these “monsters” break in and intrude on our peace. But as long as we remember that we have this unrelenting ally within, we can choose which reality we believe in.

What is the truth? The “monsters,” or the unrelenting ally within us? Where do we put our power? Where do we focus our energy as actors? Where do we place our attention as artists? Which experience do we want to claim as the victor?

Hint: We are not as powerless as we may have been led to believe.

I hope you are all continuing to fuel your artistic lives, create, and make magic!

Copyright © 2025 Mario A. Campanaro, All rights reserved.