It’s that time of the year again. You spent the entire year refining your audition package, getting new headshots, researching YAPs, and recording pre-screening applications. You got on the plane, train, or automobile, couchsurfed at a friend’s place, warmed up in a broom closet, and sang for a grand total of five minutes. After all the waiting, you open up your email and see the words, “Thank you for auditioning….unfortunately, we cannot take all of the singers…” Suddenly, your mind accelerates uncontrollably, turning into a freight train of self-doubt and self-loathing.“Is it me? Am I terrible? Should I just go to med school and call it a day? Why me?” (*cries*).

We deal with rejection more than most people in other fields, so we need to find healthy ways to deal with this inevitable part of the career. Take a day to mourn and mope. I once bought a cookie cake and some icing from the grocery store, piped some profanities in icing on my cake, and promptly ate said cake with my boyfriend. Sure, it was kind of childish, but I felt better afterward!

All joking aside, it’s important to find a healthy outlet for your feelings. I usually end up baking, cleaning, or painting, because in times of distress I like to keep my hands busy and my mind occupied. A good, old-fashioned cry also releases pent-up anger and sadness. A few more things you can try are:

• Reaching out to loved ones to catch up
• Watching a movie
• Going for a walk
• Sweating it out at the gym
• Pampering yourself with an at-home mani/pedi
• Engaging in a some retail therapy
• Cuddling with a pet

Once you've gotten all of that out of your system, take some time to reflect. Ask yourself, “What can I learn from this? How can I be better prepared for next time?”  Talk to your coach and voice teacher about your audition package. Since most audition panels don't give feedback, these two trusted colleagues will be honest with you. Sometimes, there’s not much you can do but keep practicing and keep working hard. Just keep swimming!

I recall the words of Peter Capaldi, the actor who currently portrays the Doctor on Doctor Who: “Worrying that you are crap is a waste of time. Worrying that you can’t do it is a waste of time. Worrying that you failed is a waste of time. No one cares. Just get on with it.” Now, if you'll excuse me, I have a cake to bake...