There’s just one question that’s on every actor’s lips: what would you do if you weren’t afraid?

Well, now is your chance to find out. If you’ve ever wanted to know what your wildest dreams would look like if you could actually make them happen, this could be the chance you’ve been waiting for. As it happens, Hollywood has a role for you: you could be the next big thing. All you have to do is say yes.

Here are the top five things you should do if you want to become an actor:

1. Keep your mouth shut

This isn’t just a joke either. Having been in the business for years, I can tell you that having a funny voice or an unusual way of talking isn’t going to get you far – if you want to be an actor, you need to learn to keep your mouth shut. The less you say, the more you will be able to express through your performance. Better yet, the more you learn to keep your mouth shut, the more you will be able to control your own performance, which will improve your chances of being cast in the first place.

2. Study acting

If you want to become an actor, you’re going to have to put in the work. Fortunately, Hollywood is more than willing to help, and has plenty of resources available to you. One of the best places to learn is the American Academy of Dramatic Arts (AADA). Not only does it have one of the most reputable reputations in the business, but the training is first-class. If you want to be able to tackle any role with confidence, this is the place to do it.

3. Networking is everything

In order to advance in this business, you’re going to need to be engaged in networking. This doesn’t mean that you have to become a social butterfly or start pretending to be someone’s friend just to get an acting job. It simply means that you have to be willing to put in the work and meet as many people as possible. Going to networking events and making connections is crucial if you want to succeed in this business. It doesn’t hurt to have strong social networks already in place. Start by reaching out to people you already know. If you want to get an agent and manager, contact the agents and managers of people you already know or have worked with in the past. Doing so could very well land you on your way to the big time.

4. Take advantage of every opportunity

Even if you don’t intend to pursue acting as a full-time career, don’t let that stop you from taking advantage of every opportunity that comes your way. Whether it’s a class you’ve always wanted to take, a play you’ve always wanted to see, or an audition you’ve always wanted to get in, don’t let anything stand in the way of you taking advantage of every opportunity that comes your way. Keep your eyes open for any open acting or audition offers that come your way, and make sure to pursue them with all your might. The more you put in, the more you will get back. This is especially crucial if you’re looking to break into the industry as an actor. Once you do, you’ll never be able to fully put in your time again. So, don’t let anything stand in the way of you taking advantage of every acting opportunity that comes your way.

5. Work hard

Finally, the most important thing you can do for yourself if you want to succeed as an actor is to work hard. Whether you decide to pursue an acting career or not, the industry is always going to need people willing to work their hardest to prove themselves. No one is ever going to give you anything; you have to go out and get it. Keep working at it, learning, and networking as much as you can. The more you put in, the more you will get back. Make sure to set yourself goals every week, and work hard to achieve them. The better you do, the more opportunities you’ll have the chance to pursue. Never give up, never show fear, and always keep doing what you’re doing until you know for sure that you’re making the right decision for yourself.

What Would You Do?

There’s a role available now that you may be perfect for. It’s an opportunity to pursue your dream of being an actor. All you have to do is say yes. If you’ve ever wanted to know what your wildest dreams would look like if you could actually make them happen, this could be the chance you’ve been waiting for. So, what would you do? Follow these five steps, and before you know it, you could be on your way to the big time. Good luck!