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The delusion of competition

Competition creates a pervasive atmosphere through the halls of actor training programs and studios. It is acknowledged sparingly by instructors in the early days of training as to not create too much fear because we want artists to feel free to fail, of course. And then inevitably, references to competition increase in frequency and its presence becomes palpable until it might as well be a neon sign hung in all the studios—“You will be up against a thousand actors just like you in NYC and LA, so you must bring your A-Game.” If it is not said this bluntly, it is implied with equal intention. Competition is used as a motivator, as a threat, as a reality-checker, and as a self-saboteur. I have seen a deep sense of competition in students brew amazing results. The idea that they must prove themselves against their perceived competition motivates consistent work on their body and craft, inspired preparation, and a sharp awareness of what needs improvement. But at what cost?