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Jo Kelly

Embracing Tough Direction As A Hypersensitive Actor

As actors, you may feel that you are hypersensitive and have to deal with tough direction.


Firstly, let’s debunk a myth. when you watch my training below you will discover that tough direction isn’t about being harsh or unkind; it’s about clarity and precision. A tough director is someone who knows exactly what they want and communicates it clearly. This is crucial because their job is to have a vision, understand the story, and guide you to bring that vision to life. Imagine the chaos of a director who can’t communicate their needs – it would leave you directionless and uncertain.


So, tough direction is actually beneficial. It’s what you need to thrive as an actor, providing you with the clear guidance necessary to deliver your best performance.


Now, let’s talk about hypersensitivity. As an actor, being hypersensitive means you’re highly reactive and emotionally alive. Your sensitivity allows you to fully BE your character, offering a rich, dynamic performance. It’s only by feeling deeply that you can convey the full spectrum of human emotion and bring your character to life.


The challenge arises when hypersensitivity becomes personal. If a director’s clear instructions trigger your ego or touch on personal insecurities, it’s an issue you need to address. It’s not the director’s job to manage your emotional reactions. It’s your responsibility to show up with an instrument that is open, fully alive, available for the character and ready to respond to direction without taking it personally.

When you get triggered by a clear direction, it means that you have some resistance which is like an open wound. 


Therefore, the work to do is to reset your instrument and undo everything that prevents you from being open, vulnerable, present and free. Once you do this work, you will be able to be available for your character’s needs. You will not just be a hypersensitive actor; you will be a powerful, dynamic performer who can fully engage with the story and the audience.


In short, the goal is to show up not in service of your ego, but in service of your character and the story. This is when true magic happens on stage or screen, leading to fulfilling performances and a more rewarding acting career.


Watch my training to hear all my thoughts on this topic.



After you watch the training, I'd love for you to join in the conversation happening in our private Facebook Group THE INSTINCTIVE ACTORS' SOCIETY. You can get answers for your specific situation directly from me and connect with THOUSANDS of like-minded actors across the globe, so we can move things forward faster together.


If you're not already a member, be sure to request to join ASAP here.


See you there!


Jo Kelly

Creator, The Reset Journey From Resistance to Freedom


P.S. Whenever you're ready, here are three ways I can help you:


  • Get your FREE training on how to STOP TRYING TO BE A GOOD ACTOR SO YOU HAVE A CHANCE AT BEING GREAT


  • THE ACTORS REHAB

A 3 Day Detox with Jo Kelly. Stop feeling like shit, fall in love with acting again & know that you ARE going to make it.


  • Get on the waitlist for my program, The Reset Journey From Resistance to Freedom, and stop struggling to access your natural, authentic talent in the audition room or on set. You'll learn how to reset your instrument to be 100% instinctive and free in just 33 days.


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