The Key to Success

The Key to Success

by Mario A. Campanaro

Let’s discuss the crucial nature of accountability in our line of work. Accountability is a scary thing to face when you really think about it. It asks us to look at where we are in our artistic pursuit and come to terms with whether we are truly giving our work the dedication this industry demands—especially when the “payoff” doesn’t come right away. Unfortunately, accountability seems to be absent from much of the curriculum when learning and exercising the craft. And that’s a huge mistake. Accountability and success are interdependent; they go hand in hand.

This can be taken for granted, especially if an actor doesn’t have the opportunity to pursue this work full-time at the moment. It’s easy to fall into the trap of thinking, “I’ll do it a little later,” or “I’m tired…I’ll take care of it tomorrow.” We may wait for someone else to do the work for us, or hold on to the hope of being “discovered” by some stroke of luck. Come on, NO! If that’s your mentality, find a different career—something easier, less heartbreaking. We need to wake up and get rid of this “tomorrow” mentality. We only have now. We need to get out of our own way and show up to the plate. To be blunt, stop making excuses!

If you really want things to pay off, if you really want a shot at this, you have to work your butt off for it. You need to exercise every muscle possible—personally, artistically, and professionally—so that it all supports you in every area of your career. You must remember that this is a business. And let’s be honest, it’s not a forgiving one when it comes to a lack of accountability, professionalism, and responsibility. As an artist, you must be the CEO of your own corporation. You are your business, and you need to hold yourself accountable for what’s necessary for your success.

This means no complacency. No comfort. And, above all, no laziness! Hold yourself to high professional and artistic standards. This work is deeply desired by countless artists who love the craft, so don’t forget that for every person unwilling to do the necessary work and hold themselves accountable, there’s someone out there who is ready to put in ten times the effort. Why? Because they really want it.

As a professional, no matter the career, you must hold yourself to the same standards you would expect from someone working for you to achieve success. This means continually exercising that professional muscle in every area, with complete focus and precision, so there’s nothing standing in your way—logistically, professionally, or artistically.

Your health will always be number one, and that takes different forms for everyone. But beyond that, always communicate. Answer professional calls, respond to professional texts and emails, and show up on time (which really means showing up early). Keep working on your craft and doing the work—ALL of it. Don’t let professional gaps be what stands in the way of your success. Because in the blink of an eye, someone else will be there, ready to do what you allowed to slip by.

And remember, word and reputation travel fast in this business, so be mindful and care about how you’re perceived. Lastly, always take time to understand how to break down the material—without assumptions—and dive deep into formulating the spine of the character the writer has created. Then, dig even deeper by asking the very important question: “WHY?” Keep asking yourself “WHY” as you work on discovering your character. The more you ask, the deeper your understanding of the character will grow, and the deeper you can connect with that understanding within yourself.

Give it your all, and enjoy the process. Nurture your career, your work, and your art with the love and care it truly deserves.

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